Timing
1.  Time the bath to fit his preferences and outlook. Option: A bath before he is dressed for the day to eliminate extra movement and discomfort.
2.  If it seems wise, begin by washing least sensitive area so that he will be able to enjoy what is going on and not relive what just happened. Wash the most sensitive area last.
3.  On the other hand, if he is dreading an activity (for example, a shampoo), it might be kind to do it first, in the most unobtrusive way possible, so that it will be over and he can enjoy the rest of the bath.
4.  Do cleansing which might be challenging (mental/physical) as separate activity.
5.  Begin with feet and legs, and as peace is established with the patient, move to more private areas.

 

Methods
1.  Use warm, sudsy water using no-rinse body wash and shampoo.
2.  Wrap head in a turban made of a hot sudsy towel and lovingly massage scalp and hair; then dry.
3.  Wrap in towels (over shoulder, over chest and under arms, -for females, under bosom-and across lap); cascade soapy water over the towels (if running water does not cause anxiety). Gently rub over the towels; then replace wet towels with dry ones. Let the towels cover patient while you complete washing the legs and feet. He will be dry by the time you finish.
4.  Cover with a towel and place it into folds and under arms, bosom, etc. (and leave it for a few minutes). This facilitates drying, often with no stroking required.
5.  Give a towel bath using small towels prepared beforehand so s/he can't hear or see water running. Place the towels and washcloths in a bag or pot and saturate them in very hot, soapy water. Don't add so much water that you'll have to wring out the towels. You can place the bag of wet towels in a basin of really hot water (e.g., clean trash can) so that the towels stay warmer.
6.  Wring out cloths before you remove them from the water basin (it works!) and muffle the sound of dripping water by placing another cloth under it.
7.  Keep patient covered as much as needed to keep him warm and feeling private. Wash one area and then cover the area. You can leave towels in place during the bath, one draped around shoulders with the middle of the towel over one shoulder, one over chest (under bosom) and another in lap.
8.  Use soft cloths such as baby washcloths on sensitive skin. Use a gentle touch. Pat dry (slowly, softly) rather than rub to decrease discomfort or cover with towel and gently and slowly run your hand over towel to dry.

 

The physical environment
1.  Is there a rule that says a bath is better when done in the bathroom? If patient would prefer a bed-bath, do it in bed. Use hot, sudsy towels and place them one at a time under the bath blanket. Replace with dry towels before they turn cold.
2.  Modify the shower chair for warmth and comfort. Pad using washcloths or towels around the edge of the seat or use a padded child's toilet seat insert. Add foam pipe insulation on PVC or metal framework of shower chair.
3.  Adapt the equipment so it fits the patient. For a small person, use a short shower chair. If his legs are not long enough to touch the ground, place a pot or upside down trash can under his feet.
4.  Could shampoo be done in a peaceful place like the living room or bedroom?
5.  On a nice day, a shampoo could be done outside on the patio.
6.  Does he feel that the activity is private? Care options include: closed blinds, closed doors, room divider to section off area for privacy, "do not disturb" sign on door, keeping him covered at all times.
7.  Is the bathroom a pleasant place or does it look institutional? Could a potted plant or bright towels be used to give a friendlier look?
8.  Is the light bright enough for him to see but not glaring?
9.  Are there too many people in the area or noise that might make it sound if there are? Music without words may be best; singing often competes with communication and makes it sound like more people are in the room.

The procedure
1.  Divide up tasks such as hair washing and bathing or do the bath in parts. 2.  We have heard it said that Mrs. Eddy stated that "the right thing done at the wrong time is no longer the right thing" and this is especially true when ministering to individuals who are not demonstrating mental clarity. Stop the activity if it would not be compassionate to continue.
3.  Do care as "a ladies' day at the spa." Serve a hot drink and cookies; you share the snacks as well. (Yes, eating while being freshened up is acceptable!)
4.  Minimize the number of moves during the bath or shower. Be alert to legs and other body parts that might need to be supported or sheltered when moving. Move slowly and give notice to your patient prior to moving by counting or giving a warning. Ask him to count with you.
5.  Encourage dominion and independence by supporting his demonstrated abilities and efforts to make his own decisions. Ask him what will help him feel more comfortable.

6.  Use encouragement, not coercion. Help him feel in control by giving him choices and responding to his individual requests.

 

Language
1.  Use their preferred names. We respond positively when we hear our name in the way we like it to be said and when it is pronounced correctly.
2.  Adjust your language to match his ability to understand.
3.  Speak calmly, slowly, and simply while facing him. Pause between sentences.
4.  Explain each step in simple language, but don't use too many words.
5.  If you ask the person to do something, give him enough time to process your requests.

6.  Don't use flowery language that might confuse him.
7.  If you know he doesn't want a shower, reassure him that God's children are trustworthy and that you will not do something that he doesn't want you to do. ("We'll trust God together.")
8.  Do not use the words "bathe" or "shower" with persons who are resistant to bathing. Use an alternative expression (freshen up, get ready for the day or night, cool down, warm up) that doesn't imply that he is unclean or socially unacceptable.