How do you deal with hygiene issues when he thinks he did it already?

Hi Patty,
I was my mom's caregiver for 8 years. The issue of problems getting her to take a shower and brush her teeth would arise, then subside for a while before resurfacing again. It's very frustrating! There are many reasons this can happen. Alzheimer's patients can become afraid of water. Sounds crazy, but it's true. I was given suggestions like wait a few minutes, then try again as they won't remember that you just asked. You can warm up the bathroom with shower steam to make it more comfortable. You can promise a bowl of yummy ice cream AFTER she showers, as you are leading her in to the bathroom. As for the teeth brushing, I bought some toothpaste in a flavor for kids. Bubble gum or something. For some reason, that worked pretty well. Also, instead of having her stand at the sink, I held a bowl up to her to spit in. She was going through a time she didn't like running water. I hope that helps a little. Good luck!

@virginianaeve one complaint my hubby has is that, as the water hits the skin (even on the most gentle of levels), it causes pain and discomfort. It was a nerve ending issue for him. I use pre-soaped cloths, and do a chair bath outside of the shower. He is more willing to do this than shower.