The 11 Best Shower & Bathing Aids for People with Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease affects nearly 1 million people in the U.S. and its symptoms including tremors, limb rigidity, and balance problems can make bathing difficult.

These 11 bath and shower aids will help you stay independent!

1. Non-Slip Bath or Shower Mat

Adding a non-slip mat to the bottom of your tub or shower can help reduce your risk of falls. Avoid a slippery fall by adding one of these mats to increase traction.

Homecraft Sure Tread Bath Mat

Homecraft Shower Mat

2. Grab Bar

A grab bar offers a place for you to hold onto when entering or exiting your bath or shower. The extra support can help keep you safe in the bathroom. Choose a textured grab rail for better grip even when wet. Another option is to install a grab rail near the toilet. There are also grab bars that can be secured directly to your bathtub.

Homecraft Textured Insulated Grab Rails

Homecraft Padded Bath Tub Grab Bar

3. HoldFast Grips

If you already have a grab rail, consider adding HoldFast Grips! They create a non-slip surface making them perfect for adding to standard grab bars.

HoldFast Grips

4. Bendable Bath Sponge

If Parkinson’s disease is limiting your range of motion, a long-handled bath sponge can help you reach your feet and back. Choose a bendable sponge so, you can find the perfect angle.

Sammons Preston Bendable Sponges

5. Hair Washer

A limited range of motion can also make it difficult to wash your hair. Using a hair washer allows you to shampoo and condition your hair independently.

Etac Hair Washer

6. Bath Bench or Shower Chair

As your condition progresses, balance problems can make it dangerous to stand during your shower. A bath bench or shower chair provides you with a place to sit while bathing. A bath bench also makes it easier to get into your tub without stepping over the lip. Just sit and laterally transfer by turning to put your legs into the tub. Or use a shower chair in your walk-in shower.

Choose a padded version for extra comfort or one with drainage holes to keep water off your seat. Here are some of our top picks!

Homecraft Padded Transfer Bench

Homecraft Bathtub Transfer Bench

Homecraft Lightweight Padded Shower Chair

Homecraft Shower Chair with Back & Padded Removable Arms

7. Handheld Shower Sprayer

If you’re seated during your shower, a handheld shower sprayer will come in handy. It can be mounted for use as a traditional showerhead or used as a handheld for easy rinsing.

Homecraft Deluxe Massage Shower Spray

8. Wash Mitt with Soap Pocket

If Parkinson’s disease has made it hard to grasp your slippery bar of soap, try a wash mitt! The convenient pocket holds your bar of soap, so you can continue to bathe independently.

Terry Cloth Antimicrobial Wash Mitts

9. Shower/Commode Chair Combo

If you are in the later stages of Parkinson’s disease, a shower and commode chair combo might be a better solution than a shower chair. A padded combo chair can be used as a shower chair, over a toilet, or as a commode. Plus, it’s on wheels for easy movement. Choose between self-propelled and attendant-propelled options to fit your needs.

Homecraft Self-Propelled Shower Commode Chair

Homecraft Ocean Wheeled Shower Commode Chair

10. Shampoo Basin

In the final stages of Parkinson’s disease when you are wheelchair-bound or bedridden, a shampoo basin makes it easier for someone to wash your hair while you remain in bed. This basin is easy to inflate, comfortable for users, and includes a drainage hose to remove water after washing.

Homecraft Ocean Wheeled Shower Commode Chair

11. Beauty Kit

This beauty kit includes a long-handled body washer, long handled comb, and multi-purpose grip. Ideal for those with a limited range of motion or limited grasp, the large handles are easier to hold. Use the body washer to reach your entire body while bathing. Then, independently style your hair using the comb. The grip can be used to hold a nail file, razor, or toothbrush to fulfill all your personal hygiene needs.

Helping you look your best after bathing, you can also choose to buy a long-handled comb separately or a long-handled brush.

Etac 3-Piece Beauty Kit

Etac Long-Handled Brushes

Looking for other aids for Parkinson’s disease?

Want to learn more about Parkinson’s disease?

References

1. Parkinson's Foundation. (n.d.). Statistics. Parkinson’s Foundation. Retrieved from https://bit.ly/3qB9diP
2. Parkinson's Foundation. (n.d.). Tip Sheet Assistive Devices and Home Health. National Parkinson Foundation. Retrieved from https://bit.ly/3oYaEHZ

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided on this site, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational purposes only and are not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other healthcare professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.