Your dad had a stroke, and you have a hard time helping him with some of his daily tasks. Cooking meals and preparing snacks are easy chores easy to manage. Helping him get showered, shaved, and dressed is stressful. Brushing and flossing his teeth and helping with toileting seems impossible.
Sometimes, bathroom supplies that are designed to help family caregivers can make a difference. Here are some of the vital bathroom tools that make personal care chores a little easier.
A Shower Wand
A shower wand attaches to the showerhead or tub faucet and allows you to direct the flow of the water to where it’s needed. Instead of your dad having to stand under the full shower, you can have him sit down while you wash each area of his body.
After toileting, a hand-held shower wand is also helpful for thoroughly cleaning his delicate skin. You’ll also want to have baby wipes on hand for quick clean-ups.
Shower Seat
A shower seat is essential for bathing after a stroke. Your dad may not be able to stand without support. Get a shower seat that has arms to support him. Wash him from a seated position using the shower wand.
A Lightweight Wrap
There are cotton wraps that cover the torso that are made of soft easy-to-rinse washcloth material. Use that wrap to keep your dad covered while you wash him. When you need to wash the areas under that wrap, you can use the material as a washcloth and rinse him off without having to take it off.
An Electric Toothbrush and Water Flosser
Rechargeable toothbrushes are a must for oral care. Look for a model that has long, slender heads that reach all the way to the back of the mouth without having to reach your hand into the mouth.
A hand-held water flosser blasts water between the teeth to break up plaque. This is a handy way to floss the teeth if your dad has a habit of biting you when you try to floss his teeth with dental floss.
An Electric Razor Designed for Sensitive Skin
Invest in an electric razor that’s designed for sensitive skin. Instead of using a traditional razor and risking cuts if your dad won’t sit still, you can use the electric razor to shave him without risking nicks, cuts, or razor burn.
Sometimes a Paid Caregiver is Best
When it’s hard to help your dad with hygiene and grooming, talk to a home care agency about personal care at home services. He may be uncomfortable having you help, and there’s nothing wrong with that. It is hard to rely on a child to help you with tasks like showers, toileting, and shaving.
A personal care attendant is ready to help. Your dad’s more at ease as he doesn’t feel he’s burdening you, and you know your dad is getting the care he needs. It frees up your time, allowing you to focus on other tasks and make time to spend with him on activities he loves. Call a personal care at home agency to learn more.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering Personal Care at Home in Madison, WI please contact the caring staff at Agape Senior Services Madison today. (608) 841-1004
