Helpful & Adaptive Practical Tools in Dementia Caregiving: Bath, Meals, Medication, Communication, Sleep, Ambulation
If a family member or a caregiver has chosen to care for their loved one at home for as long as possible, it is important to know what resources are available to make things not only easier but also safer and ideally, more enjoyable for the person being cared for!
Showering, Bathing, and Toileting
This first item is by far one of my favorite items that have really resolved a lot of concerns with hair-washing and it was introduced to me when my mom was in intensive care. She was unable to physically shower but when this product was used, she became a whole new person, with fresh clean smelling and feeling hair. It is amazing how much dignity can be restored with clean hair!
Shampoo Cap (blue label)
We so quickly take for granted how much trust and comfort are needed in a salon-setting. This can be very scary and confusing for those who have any kind of cognitive decline. This inflatable shampoo funnel may help ease the confusion so they don’t have to lean back and wonder if they are falling.
Inflatable Hair Funnel
This bath-wrap which can be for both men and women is helpful in two particular areas. We want to always avoid having anyone being chilly in the showering process as that makes it a negative experience. We also don’t want anyone to feel shame or embarrassment. Having this easy cover-up allows dignity to be maintained during the showering process. It’s a win. Win.
Bath Wrap Blue
Is showering your hardest challenge when it comes to caregiving? You are not alone! Some days it may just work better to do a quick sponge bath and call it quits for the day.
Sudzz Bath Sponge - Disposable
When the water of a bath or shower appears to look or feel uncomfortable, this is a really nice way to maintain freshness and hygiene without all the bathroom fuss around the shower. Keep energy levels and frustration low with this rinse-free cleansing foam.
Rinse Free Cleansing Foam
Body Lotion Unscented
Standing for a long period of time in the shower can be tricky and it can increase the risk of falls. There are a few different options for sitting in the shower area but this is one of the more popular ones. For some, having these side rails are really helpful and important when it comes to standing up after the shower.
Bath Chair
It is important to maintain independence and safely in the bathroom, including while being on the toilet. We want to provide something sturdy to hold on to while attempting to stand and we went it to be safe so it does not wobble or move when we are depending on it. We never want to go cheap when purchasing any kind of rails or assistive devices used for fall prevention. We also want to make sure that they are assembled and installed by professionals and according to the directions that come with the device.
Transfer Bench
https://amzn.to/4jnGIBe
Toilet Side Rails
Bathtub safety rail
Grab bars
It is intentional that I am not recommending any suction-cup type grab bars. While the packaging makes clear that they are not intended to function with putting weight on them, that is often forgotten or misunderstood and poses a threat to one’s safety in the bathroom. Having grab bars professionally installed into the studs of the wall is recommended at all times.
https://amzn.to/3EBCZRl
If we are wanting something a bit more attractive and permanent, this hand rail may be a nicer option. That said, you want to make sure you have a professional install this correctly as there is a risk of falling, if it is installed poorly.
Permanent Hand Rail
https://amzn.to/3QUdzkz
Toilet Target
Toilet targets are not just for the toddlers. It may come in handy for those that have trouble aiming as they age as well. Caregivers agree that these kinds of tools help keep the bathroom clean and safe.
https://amzn.to/3EBCjvh
Meals & Eating
Nobody is alone when it comes to food sliding off of our spoons so this spill-proof plate may meet the needs for a lot of us! The curved edge allows us to safely get the food onto our spoon or fork so we can successfully get the food to our mouths.
Blue Spill-proof Plate
One of the highest values in dementia care is maintaining dignity and one’s independence for as long as possible. This works best when we adapt the appliances we use rather than expect an individual to do the adapting. This set meets several potential needs. The suction cup minimizes movements and sliding. The wider handles to the silverware allows for a better grasp when fine-motor skills are a challenge and the color red elicits a sense of hunger, when a weakened appetite is often times the case in dementia care.
Adaptive Table Setting
As grasp and fine motor skills decline, these larger grip appliances may not only feel better in their hands but it may make them more successful while they are trying to maintain independence while eating.
Enhanced Grip Silverware
As we age, our fine-motor grasping skills become more challenging. For some of us, we may develop some mild tremors which also makes drinking from a traditional cup challenging. This clear cup with two handles and a lid allows a person to maintain independence, preserve dignity, and prevent spilling. It is important to prevent any use of straws.
Cup with Lid and handles
Medication Distribution & Storage
As with any medication organizer, it is important to keep medications safe and out of the hands of the person with a dementia diagnosis. One of the primary attributes of dementia is memory loss (forgetting when a dose is taken) and losing the meaning of things (misunderstanding what the pills are and what they are for). Caregivers must keep careful supervision of all prescriptions and over the counter medications for this reason.
Most of us do not travel lightly when it comes to medical needs when we travel. This handy carrying case keeps everything in one place for all of our routine and unexpected needs.
Medication Travel Bag
EZY Pill Box - Weekly
Obviously, if memory impairment and organizational skills are impaired, this is not the answer. However, if kept in a safe place, this may be exceptionally helpful for caregivers to keep track of things. Medication supervision and management for those living with dementia is extremely important so be sure to keep these in a very safe place and out of their reach.
Monthly Dose Pill Boxes
I share this pill crusher link with a bit of hesitation. If taking medication tablets is a challenge, for some meds, crushing them and putting them into a favorite treat like chocolate pudding, ice cream peanut butter, etc. may be the magic trick. However, be sure to read all your medication labels carefully as there are some meds that are not allowed to be crushed. If you have any questions about, reach out to your doctor or pharmacist.
Pill Crusher
Blood Pressure Cuff
https://amzn.to/4lGSXud
Communication
Portable Communication Cards
Bed Table with Wheels
Slip/Fall Prevention
It is recommended that you see and are assessed by an occupational therapist to determine what the best fit is for you when it comes to safe ambulation. Everyone is different and has their own personal preferences and challenges. You want to make sure you have the device adjusted and set at your personal comfort level for your weight, height, ability, etc. Equipment for any durable medical equipment is not one-size-fits-all and using any equipment can lead to a safety concern or even worse, an emergency. Be sure to get the right equipment and evaluate it with a trained professional.
It is also important to check to see if Medicare pays for any of these devices prior to paying full price for them on Amazon.
Cane
Rollator/Walker
Standard Walker with Wheels
https://amzn.to/42TWC0a
No-slide seat cushion
Bedside Fall Protection Mat
https://amzn.to/4isnGIq
Full Disclosure: These items are linked to an Amazon Affiliate page and a tiny portion of sales from these links is given to Dragonfly Senior Navigation Services LLC.