Alzheimer's and bathing often dont mix well. According to the National Institute on Aging's Caregiver Guide: Tips for Caregivers of People with Alzheimer's Disease " ...some people with Alzheimer's disease dont mind bathing, for others it is a frightening, confusing experience."

The Caregiver Guide also gives the following tips:

§ "Plan the bath or shower for the time of day when the person is most calm and agreeable. Be consistent. Try to develop a routine.

§ Respect the fact that bathing is scary and uncomfortable for some people with Alzheimer’s. Be gentle and respectful. Be patient and calm.

§ Tell the person what you are going to do, step by step, and allow him or her to do as much as possible.

§ Prepare in advance. Make sure you have everything you need ready and in the bathroom before beginning. Draw the bath ahead of time.

§ Be sensitive to the temperature. Warm up the room beforehand if necessary and keep extra towels and a robe nearby. Test the water temperature before beginning the bath or shower.

§ Minimize safety risks by using a handheld showerhead, shower bench, grab bars, and nonskid bath mats. Never leave the person alone in the bath or shower.

§ Try a sponge bath. Bathing may not be necessary every day. A sponge bath can be effective between showers or baths."

Click here to download the entire Caregiver Guide from the National Institute on Aging