Care and support

Bathing and showering advice

Many people keep themselves clean by regularly “strip-washing” with water, soap and a flannel. This may be the simplest and safest way of keeping clean.

When having a bath or shower, safety should be your first consideration. Bathing can be dangerous for anyone but the risk increases with age and disability. If in doubt, do not attempt to use the bath or shower.

Some special equipment could make bathing easier and safer:

A bath seat placed in the bottom of the bath may help you get up and down more easily.

A bath board may help you get into the bath, or enable you to sit while washing or showering in the bath.

Grab rails fitted on the wall by the side of the bath may help you get in and out of the bath. Towel rails, basins and taps may not be strong enough for you to lean on.

Tap rails fitted securely to the taps can help you steady yourself when getting in and out of the bath.

If you are finding it difficult to manage, please contact us (select the link called 'Contact us' on the left of this page for details). We can assess your needs and advise you on ways to help you manage. You may need to have a shower installed or have alterations made to your home. We may be able to help you apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant for adaptations to your home if you qualify.