Hey everyone, I'm reaching out because I'm looking for some creative ideas to help my stepdad, who is bedridden with brain cancer. He's been really missing the feeling of showering and often wonders why he can't get up to enjoy it anymore. Having a hoist for him makes an actual shower seem impossible. So, I'm hoping to come up with a DIY "fake" shower setup that could give him a bit of that experience and make him feel normal again. He's already able to keep up with his hygiene through bed baths, but it's more about the sensation of water running over him that we're trying to recreate. He's in a hospital bed at home, and moving him is very exhausting, so I'd love any ideas that can be done without having to transfer him extensively. Thanks for your help!
2 Answers
You could try using warm, wet washcloths to give him that warm, relaxing feeling. Just make sure to put some chux pads underneath him to protect the mattress. Not exactly a shower, but he might find it comforting! Also, keep him dry afterward to avoid any skin irritation. You’re doing a wonderful thing for him—hang in there! ❤️
What about using an inflatable shampoo basin? It’s not too strenuous to set up and could let you wash his hair comfortably while he’s in bed. You could also incorporate some soothing shower sounds for ambiance while you clean him. That way, he can get the sensory experience without the actual shower!
That’s a great idea! Shower sounds could really enhance the experience for him.