How often should we give baths to the elderly? Is it necessary to give them a daily bath? Is it appropriate to use mild, superfatted soap? Should we use body lotions afterwards?
Oh yea, lotions/creams should be done b/c elderly skin is much dryer than ours, especially after baths. I do it lotion/cream every day, if possible, or at least every other day.
I think it also depends on how willing/able the care recepient is to taking a bath. Some people like it but most hate it and will scream/combat to get out - that's my case here, so we do mostly sponge baths with the great no-rinse soap they have available now. If the person is willing/able, then I think the nursing home is probably a good guide - 1 or 2x per week. Good Luck !
My family (husband and 2 kids) live with his grandmother. She is dealing with pd and is 90 years old. I bathe her 2 times a week, unless she needs it more. And she also uses deodrant everyday. I think that it just depends on the person (and smell) as to how many times.
Great question, I know the nursing home only does it 2x per week. Is that appropriate? I don't know - it seems the norm but doesn't seem lik enough to me. What should be done on the alternate days? Deodarant?
Take Care !