My mother is 89, still lives independently and does pretty well. She is not 100% stable on her feet and has now developed a logical fear of getting in the shower. There are appropriate grab bars and no slip strips on the tub surface.
As her son I find myself very uncomfortable assisting with “personal care” issues. Helping her bathe is something I refuse to do, for both of our dignity.
My question is; baring something prohibitive like changing her tub to a walk-in shower, does anyone have a suggestion of what I can to to make her feel more comfortable?
Also, the grab bars are slippery is hands are wet. My mom likes wash dry cloths handy to grab the bar with when exiting the shower.
If that doesn’t work then you may need to call Council on Aging to have an assessment done. They contract out with a caregiver company and will send someone out a couple of times a month for four hour shifts. That is what we had anyway. You could hire someone for the alternate weeks.
They will help bathe, tidy up her room, prepare a light meal, sit with her as a companion to play cards, put a puzzle together, etc.
Best wishes to you and your mom.
Elder Helpline
Accesses a qualified Information and Referral specialist who can provide information about services available for elders and their caregivers within the local community
954-745-9779
They should be able to advise you on finding support with personal care for your mother.
before bed time. I too felt the same as You as I did not feel it would be fair of me to invade Mom's dignity so I asked a retired Nurse to call for three, four hours one day every week, and She did which worked handsomely. Mother had an en-suite bathroom off Her ground floor bedroom. I fitted a folding shower chair onto the shower wall for Mom, so She could sit while being showered. Hand rails galore, and lots of towels so Your Mom does not slip when coming out of the shower, also place a towel upon the toilet seat so Your Mom can sit while being dried. The refusal of Our Elders not wishing to shower stems from the fear of falling. You are a good Son to Your Dear Mother and We wish the very best for You Both.
Hospitals, rehab and care facilities use them. Walgreen's carries them; I suspect other drug stores on that level do as well. One of the local grocery stores has a varied selection.
Just be careful and buy the ones that are liquids and not sprays.