My dad is 89, has mild/moderate dementia, and still lives at home. I live in another state but have managed to keep him at his home (his big wish) with the help of local caregivers/friends, caring housemates (he has two) once-a-month visits and daily calls.
Most of the time, he refuses to get dressed, bathe and go outside even for a one-block walk. My concerns are that he wears the same underwear for days on end, stinks, and I have a feeling that his not changing adds to his lethargy. He bathes infrequently and won't let anyone help him with this, so it's always a little risk when he gets in the tub, though he has a shower chair.
I keep reading that exercise helps even more than drugs with dementia and Alzheimer's, but none of his caretakers have luck getting him to do any of this. When I was there two weeks ago he did go for a walk with me without a fight, but I am not there most of the time.
Has anyone had success getting a stubborn elder to change clothes, bathe and get out? Any tips? His main caretaker and I are often nagging him with few results.
Thanks so much for any tips!
are any of his caretakers actually from an agency with training?
he may need more than once a month visit and daily 'calls'
not bathing I think could trigger skin problems besides the smell
maybe there is a skilled person who is specially trained in the "bathing issues" that can be hired.
my dad didn't like bathing either (in AL) and the skin/hair gets so oily and crusty (ug.)
I wish there was an easy answer to give you but honestly..... There isn't one. I have been taking care of my sister for four years and it is not fun!
We can't afford professional care. I would advise you to call Hospice and find out about the Transition program. This is good for helping with ID bracelet, resources and help with supplies. It is part of Hospice used when life expectancy is longer than six months.
They do give you Medicaid resources so you can begin looking into that if needed. They will come to your Dad's home to work with you.
Good luck my friend as you begin this difficult journey!
You put me in perspective.