Preparation and a calm atmosphere are factors to consider when bathing an older person, nurses say.

• Wear water shoes.
• Gather soaps, cloths and towels before approaching the person.
• Use a shower seat.
• Avoid getting water on the person’s head or face.
• Dim lights that are too bright.
• Play relaxing music.
• Realize there’s no right or wrong time for a bath.
• Sponge baths work, too.

-- from the team of nurses in the department of geriatrics at Upstate

This article appears in the spring 2023 issue of Upstate Health magazine.