For caregivers, making the effort to create a home spa for someone with a disability is a loving gesture. But before you get started, Tannenbaum suggests checking in with the care receiver to ensure the best experience possible.
Respect the Bather’s Preferences
Some people don’t like having their head sprayed with water. Some prefer to step into a filled tub, while others prefer the tub to be filled once they are seated.
Discuss these preferences before you get started, so you can prevent difficult moments during the process.
Here are additional considerations that Tannenbaum suggests when you are thinking about creating a home spa in a home care environment:
- To accommodate physical challenges and avoid injury to the caregiver, discuss the best way to transfer to the shower or tub before you get started.
- Determine the smoothest transitions throughout the process of disrobing, moving into the bath, bathing, getting out and drying off.
"Experiment with different techniques each bath time until you reach a sequence that works for both of you," Tannenbaum says.
- Consider using back-saving tools like bath transfer benches, bath lifts and handheld showers.
- Think about the timing of the activity. Is it best to do first thing in the morning when energy is highest, or later in the day after administering appropriate pain medication?
