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Thank you so much for your comments. I'm not afraid of falling (I'm 75 years old) although at times I am but that's not the reason for my not showering. It just seems overwhelming to get in the tub and once I do I enjoy it so much and give myself kudos for finally getting it done. I tell myself I will start taking showers more often and then maybe it will just turn into an everyday thing but that never works. I have been told that elderly people do get lazy with their hygiene but I don't feel that this is the case because I have always been immaculate with myself but not for a long time. Seems since my sister died on September 20 of 2015, my cat died shortly before my sister passed and I quite my job when Judy became ill with a rare form or cancer and I just could not concentrate anymore with so much on my mind. After that my life changed to much. I'm rambling here so I'll end my comments here. Thank you again for taking the time to write to me. : )
Replies to "Thank you so much for your comments. I'm not afraid of falling (I'm 75 years old)..."
If it makes you feel any better, you are not alone. I struggle to get in a bath or shower too. It just feels too difficult. Also, I have to monitor my oxygen constantly, especially with any activity, and it isn't possible to wear an oximeter, or oxygen therapy, in the bath or shower. I have been sponge bathing, using disposable washcloths/wipes. I am trying not to beat myself up and just use the ways I can cope with to get clean. I am hopeful that things will normalize if I can get my oxygen readings stabilized. If not, I just do the best I can in the easiest way possible. I hope this is some small encouragement to you. We have enough to deal with, with this LC nightmare. I think it's important to do whatever feels easiest whenever we can.
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It’s so hard to function when you lose someone who is so close to you. Getting out of bed had never been a problem but lately I don’t want to make the effort. I used to be so clean and my house was such, you could eat off the floor. Now I’m not sure if you can eat off my dishes. I’m really enjoying this group and I’m getting kind words from all of you and it warms my heart. Thank you and I hope I’m responding correctly.