Why People With Alzheimer's Resist Bathing and How to Help

As Alzheimer's or dementia progresses, people with these conditions may need help with personal hygiene. One task they may need help with is bathing. But people with Alzheimer's can often be resistant to these tasks. This is sometimes referred to as Alzheimer's bathing resistance, and it can cause problems for caregivers.¹

Bathing resistance can create safety concerns, as the risk of falls and slips increases on wet bathroom surfaces. The risk of falling or accidents increases around showers or baths. The safety concerns can also increase if the person with Alzheimer's becomes violent.^1,2

It may seem strange to encounter such resistance around what seems like a simple task. However, there are explanations for why people with Alzheimer's may not want to bathe.^1,2

Reasons why someone with dementia may resist bathing

Everyone's experience with Alzheimer's is different. So, it is hard to know exactly why some people may not want to bathe. Some potential reasons include:^1-5

• Fear of water
• Fear of falling
• Feeling cold, hot, or uncomfortable
• Feeling embarrassed or resistant to loss of control
• Not understanding the need for a bath

How does fear impact bathing resistance?

Having Alzheimer's or dementia can increase the amount of fear that people feel. Alzheimer's can make it more likely for someone to develop aquaphobia, or a fear of water. They may also be unable to gauge the water's depth, which can increase this fear.^3,4

For some people, this fear can be related to past trauma, such as a scary experience with water. This can make them resist water in the future. Other people may associate the sensation of water over their heads with drowning. Regardless of the cause, this fear can make people very resistant to bathing.^3,4

People with Alzheimer's can also develop a fear of falling. The moving, slippery surfaces and stepping involved in a bath or shower can make people feel unstable. This can trigger their fear and add to their Alzheimer's bathing resistance.^3-5

How does the loss of independence or understanding impact bathing resistance?

It can be difficult to explain to people with Alzheimer's that they need to bathe. By the time their disease has progressed to the point that they fight bathing, it may be too late to effectively reason with them. Some people may simply resist bathing because they do not understand its purpose.^1,3

People with Alzheimer's may also resist the embarrassment that comes with needing help to bathe. This can also cause a feeling of lost independence. They may not want to be naked and exposed in front of a caregiver. These negative feelings can contribute to resistance to bathing in Alzheimer's.^1,2

Alzheimer's can also impact a person's sense of temperature. This means water that feels comfortable to a caregiver may feel painfully hot or cold to someone with Alzheimer's. This can contribute to bathing being an awkward, unenjoyable, or even painful process.⁴

Tips for managing bathing resistance in dementia

If someone with Alzheimer's does not want to bathe, try to be understanding. As a caregiver, there are things you can try. Try making the bathroom a peaceful and familiar place. Use gentle, familiar bath products they once used. Keep a regular bath schedule. Involve your loved one in decisions whenever possible to help them retain a sense of control.^2,4

If you continue to have challenges with Alzheimer's bathing resistance, talk with healthcare professionals about how to handle bathing difficulties. They can provide tips and strategies that may help.