Managing Common Routine Challenges
Resistance to Bathing

• Try changing the days or times of bathing. 
• Make the environment as comfortable and free from distractions as possible.
• Allow the Veteran some control over things they are still able to do.
• Remember to use simple and direct statements such as “Your bath is ready!”.
• Use supportive equipment when possible such as a shower chair and handheld showerhead.

Incontinence

• It is important to consult with medical providers to rule out an underlying medical condition.
• Try a toileting schedule bringing them to the bathroom every few hours. 
• Consider incontinence products such as waterproof sheets, adult briefs, and pads.
• Pay attention to non-verbal cues such as pulling at their pants or pacing.

Eating and Motivating to Eat

• Find a mealtime routine that works for your family and try to stick to it.
• Make mealtime about eating with little distractions.
• Reintroduce foods the Veteran may have liked in the past.
• Provide smaller meals throughout the day.
• Prepare meals together or with the Veteran in the room so they know it is mealtime.

Wandering

• Provide structure, a routine, and activities to keep them reassured and busy. 
• Ensure basic needs are met as they could be restless because they are hungry or need to go to the bathroom. 
• Use childproof knobs on the doors and camouflage doors to deter them from leaving. 
• Enroll in a Safe Return or Medic Alert so they can be assisted when found wandering (see resource section in this module for more information).