Skin & hair · 20 min
Washing hair for someone who cannot get to the shower
Towels, a jug of warm water, a basin and no hurry. Clean hair can make someone who is ill or in bed feel more like themselves.
When someone is unwell, recovering from surgery or unable to get to a bathroom, hair washing is often one of the first things to stop. Yet clean hair can make a real difference to how a person feels. With a little preparation, it can be done in a bed or chair.
The steps
Four small steps,in your own time.
Ask the person if they would like it, and when. Gather everything first: several towels, a waterproof sheet or large plastic bag, a large bowl or basin, a jug of warm water, a second jug, shampoo and a comb.
Help them get comfortable: sitting in a chair leaning slightly back with a basin behind, or lying with their head and shoulders at the edge of the bed on a waterproof sheet that drains into a basin.
Test the water on your wrist, then pour gently from the jug, shielding their eyes with a folded cloth. Shampoo with your fingertips, then rinse with fresh warm water from the second jug.
Wrap their hair in a warm towel, press it dry, and comb gently. Tell them how it looks and give them a mirror if they would like one.
The reason
Why it helps
Feeling clean is part of dignity and comfort, especially for someone who has lost control over much of their day. Washing hair is also a moment of touch and care that many people find soothing. Preparing everything first keeps it calm and warm.
A gentle variation
If a full wash is not possible, use a no-rinse shampoo or a no-rinse shampoo cap from a pharmacy, or simply comb through with a damp, warm cloth. Some areas have hairdressers who visit homes or hospitals.
WE · TRIBE
Try itwith someone.
Make it something you do together: ask them how they like their hair washed and what products they prefer, let them do as much as they can, and keep talking or play music they enjoy.
Try it today
This week, ask the person you care for whether they would like their hair washed, and if so, gather everything you need first, then wash it slowly and gently.
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