Alzheimer’s Disease - It’s All About Approach

When working in the Alzheimer's Unit, many people felt that shower days were the hardest. Often showers are small, dark and uninviting so the residents would fight and try very hard to not be 'put' into the shower. You cannot force anyone into a shower so one of the most talked about topics at a staff meeting would be, "How I helped Ms. Smith shower." We had a resident who was new and hadn't showered in over 1 year. Her daughter tried her best and would sponge bath her as thoroughly as she could. The staff members tried day after day to convince her to shower. Finally one day we came to her and said, it is your lucky day! You won the "Pamper me for the day contest!" We gave her a crown to wear, a plush robe and slippers and had a little pink caddy with shampoos, lotions and beauty supplies. She beamed from ear to ear and said, "Wow I won!" We were fortunate to have a beautiful shower area with warm soft colors and a relaxing environment thanks to our dedicated families. So once we walked her into the shower room we had her sit on the bench and pick out her shampoos and lotions. She was so excited. She showered that day. Every other day the staff would come to her with the exact same approach and every other day she was showered.

I have heard many stories from families and other professionals with successful strategies for working with residents. We invite you to share yours!