Washing and bathing with arthritis - How to guide - Complete Care Shop (2024)

Arthritis is a medical condition that affects millions of people of all ages around the world. It can transform the simplest of daily activities, including bathing and showering, into challenging tasks. However, washing and bathing with arthritis doesn’t have to be such a struggle, especially with the help of productions, tips, and recommendations from Complete Care Shop.

In this blog, we aim to provide you with practical guidance and advice to make your daily bathing easier, more manageable and more comfortable. If you’re looking for advice on how to get out of the bath with arthritis, then you’ve come to the right place. Complete Care Shop’s range of products and services are all uniquely designed for the individual. From adapting your bathing techniques to reduce discomfort to having the right bathroom aids to make the process easier, we’ve got you covered.

Understanding arthritis and its impact

Whether you have arthritis yourself or you are a caregiver for someone who does, you must understand the condition and the impact it has so that you can support them in any way they need. Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, and it can lead to reduced mobility, and difficulties performing routine daily activities, such as washing. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Washing and bathing with arthritis will likely require adapting bathing routines to not only make it more comfortable but also to ensure that the individual can try to manage their pain and maintain their independence where possible.

Washing and bathing with arthritis

As we mentioned earlier, for those living with arthritis washing and showering can be very challenging. Not only can it exacerbate the pain and discomfort but needing the help of others may feel like a loss of independence. Therefore, it’s crucial to try a range of solutions to make washing and bathing with arthritis more manageable.

To ease discomfort we recommend showering at a time of the day when pain is usually at its lowest. For many, warm water can be soothing for joint pain so we recommend keeping the water at a comfortable temperature. However, it can be difficult to get in and out of the bath without being in pain when living with arthritis. This is where using arthritis-friendly bathing and washing aids and tools from Complete Care Shop can help.

Long-handled body washers have been designed to make it easier to wash the body and can be used with minimal effort. They also help to avoid over-stretching and straining but make sure that all body parts are washed while reducing strain on joints.

Similarly, long handled foot sponges are also a great way to make sure feet are cleaned thoroughly in the bath or shower without having to stretch or bend over as much.

Getting out of the bath or shower

Bathrooms can easily become slippery and wet, making getting in and out of the bath safely difficult, especially with the added challenge of arthritis. Safety must be prioritised here and can be improved through the use of grab bars. Installing grab bars by the shower or bath can offer much-needed support when getting in and out.

Bathroom grab rails can make getting out of the bath or shower a whole lot safer and help to reduce the risk of falling or slipping. If you or a loved one is unsteady on their feet or has limited mobility then grab rails (in the right places) can make it much easier and safer to get around. If you’ve been feeling worried about how to get out of the bath with arthritis then a grab rail along with a bath board could help to relieve a lot of your anxieties. Try sitting on the side of the bath lifting your legs over instead of stepping into the bath, you will find this way much safer.

We would also recommend the use of non-slip bath mats to help prevent falls. They’re designed to provide a better grip while washing and bathing with arthritis and so reduce the risk of injury in wet conditions. These are simple but effective modifications that could significantly improve bathroom safety.

Products to enhance bathing

For many, having a bath is a great opportunity to relax and unwind after a difficult day. However, this isn’t always the case for those with arthritis. Here at Complete Care Shop, we have a variety of products that are specifically designed to take away stress involved with bathing. For example, bath lifts can gently lower and raise a person in and out of the bath, alleviating the need for any painful stretching and bending and any anxieties around getting stuck. This can also allow for a smoother and more peaceful bathtime to enhance the overall experience.

Handheld showerheads could also be a good option for those looking for more control in the process, allowing them to easily reach all areas of the body without straining and causing further discomfort. By having these aids you can make sure that mobility issues don’t get in the way of your relaxation time or your own personal hygiene.

Bath and shower seating

If you or someone you care for has arthritis then bath and shower seating can be an entire game-changer. One of the main reasons why bathing and showering with arthritis can be so difficult is because individuals struggle to stand for a long period of time. But by using adjustable bath chairs and shower stools, you can enjoy comfort and stability and reduce the risk of slipping.

Bath and shower seats are available in various designs and sizes so whatever your personal needs and the layout of your bathroom, you’ll be able to find an option that suits you. Having a secure place to sit can also make bathing less anxiety-provoking and more enjoyable. You can even get bath pillows and cushions for added comfort.

Safety and accessibility features

When considering which bathing and showering aids are required for someone with arthritis, the main aims should always be safety and accessibility. There are many small changes you can make that will make a significant difference. For example, anti-slip surfaces reduce the risk of falls and installing handrails offers additional balance and support where needed. You may also benefit from temperature control devices that are a great way to prevent scalding which can be a common hazard when mobility and sensations are impaired.

Living with arthritis doesn't mean you have to compromise on personal hygiene, safety or a relaxing bath. That’s why we offer a range of products designed to make bathing a safer, more comfortable, and more independent experience for those with arthritis. By using the products mentioned in this blog, as well as others available on our website, you can maintain your independence and dignity in the bathroom, making this essential part of your day as easy and pain-free as possible.

If you have any questions or need guidance on selecting the right products for your needs, we are here to assist you every step of the way. For more information, feel free to contact us.

Share this article

Share this article

Don’t miss out!

Sign up to our emails for 10% off your first order. Be the first to know about all our offers, including email-exclusive offers, plus new products and great advice from our experts.

Email address

By signing up you consent to us using your email address in accordance with our privacy policy.