Helpful hints and tips for bathing or showering
- Using a bath mitt or sponge with soap inside reduces the need to co-ordinate slippery objects.
- Very hot water can cause fatigue, so consider using warm or lukewarm water.
- Consider using a towelling dressing gown after washing so you stay warm and dry off at the same time. This allows an opportunity for a short rest.
- Position a chair ready to sit on after the shower and for when you’re ready to get dressed.
- Choose your clothes and put them out ready before you bath or shower.
Hints and tips for getting dressed
- Dressing and undressing can be time consuming and tiring. Aim to allow more time than is required to prevent the need to rush.
- Do a few stretching exercises to wake your muscles up so they are ready for the task ahead.
- Remain seated for as much of the task as possible. Sitting can help to reduce fatigue and reduce the risk of falling. Avoid sitting on the edge of the bed, instead choose a suitable chair with a firm base and arms on both sides. A suitable chair makes getting up and down much easier.
- Roll from side to side to get pants over your hips. You can do this while sitting in a chair or lying down on your bed.
- Choose front opening clothing.
- Avoid clothing with small buttons or fiddly fastenings. Consider elastic or Velcro fastenings.
- Avoid clothing items made from velour, flannel or other materials that increase friction during transfers.
- Avoid socks with tight elastic as they can be harder to get on and off.
- Lightweight, well-fitting, supportive shoes with secure fastenings are advised. Shoes and slippers with a full back to them reduce the risk of falls. Avoid shoes with rubber soles which can cause tripping. Slip-on shoes or shoes with elastic laces are easier to get on and off.
- Make dressing simple. Lay out clothes ahead of time, in the order they are normally put on.
- Pieces of equipment designed to help with different aspects of dressing are available. Ask for a referral to an occupational therapist if you think you could benefit from any of these.
- Long handled shoe horns are available.
- Sock aids can help to get socks and tights on.
- A helping hand or dressing hook can help with dressing and undressing.
- Button hooks assist with small buttons.
- A dressing stick helps get your coat or shirt on or off if you have shoulder weakness
Your occupational therapist can discuss specific challenges you might be experiencing.
Personal grooming
People with Parkinson’s can find that stiffness, tremor and slower periods in the day pose challenges for brushing your teeth, applying makeup, shaving, brushing and drying hair.
- Sit down to complete as much of the task as you can. Sitting down will help to reduce fatigue and can reduce the risk of having a fall. If you’re using a perch stool or chair in front of a mirror make sure it is the correct height; your occupational therapist can help with this.
- Holding your arms up to complete tasks can be extremely tiring especially when accompanied by a tremor. Placing your elbows on a surface in front of you can help in reducing both fatigue and tremor.
- Use electric appliances to conserve energy when possible, for example, an electric razor and an electric toothbrush.
- Use a hands-free hairdryer stand as they can be mounted to a flat surface to and can prevent the need to hold the hairdryer at all times.
- A weighted shaver hand strap can make shaving easier and can improve safety and independence.
- Long handled aids can be really helpful especially with washing your body, legs and feet and hair brushing.
Mealtimes
- Organise meals for “on” periods, or when medication is working best. Plan ahead so there is no need to rush.
- Anchoring your elbows on the table can help to reduce tremor and allows more flexibility at the wrist.
- Sit in a supportive chair that is comfortable, allows you to sit upright and has a solid base. Aim to be sitting at a 90 degree angle with your hips level with your knees. Stay upright for 30 minutes after your meal.
- Cut food into small-bite size pieces so that it is easier to chew and swallow.
- Discuss adapted cutlery and utensils with your occupational therapist. There are several different types that include weighted cutlery to help reduce tremor, built-up to help grip, lightweight handles or a “spork” — a spoon and fork in one. A rocker knife can help with cutting food.
- Specially designed mugs are available if you have problems with grip (large handle cup), liquid escaping due to tremor (non-spill cup) or problems with swallowing (dysphagia cup). An Occupational Therapist can help you choose the right cup for you. If you have problems with swallowing then please tell your Parkinson’s team or GP.
- Use a non-skid mat to stabilize objects on the table.
- Use a plate guard or plate with a raised lip to prevent food from spilling.