DIY foot spa can be a relaxing treat for some long term patients

Thanks to Janet Hopkinson for sharing an idea that helped her mother who has dementia.

She writes....

'My Mum (dementia & Alzheimer's sufferer) simply adores having a DIY foot spa. A plastic washing up bowl and some 'No Rinse' soap make this an inexpensive treat, made extra special with some cream massaged in after drying and then some microwave heated slippers. This is BLISS for my Mum.
Also, a chiropodist appointment is a great idea to ensure there's nothing nastie going on between toes or under toe nails!'

We loved this idea for many reasons. It's caring, it's gentle and can be hugely comforting. Janet Hopkinson mentions the importance of drying the feet properly and also ensuring that the cream is fully massaged into the skin afterwards as there could be a risk of causing infection in any cracks or between the toes.

I know it's obvious, but check that the slippers don't get too hot in the microwave. A person with dementia may not be able to tell you themselves.

NOTE: ALTHOUGH MANY PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA WOULD LOVE THIS KIND OF THERAPY, PLEASE TAKE ADVICE BEFORE OFFERING THIS IDEA TO SOMEONE WITH THE CONDITION. SOME SUFFERERS ARE UPSET BY IMMERSING ANY PART OF THEIR BODY IN WATER, ESPECIALLY IF THEY CAN'T JUDGE THE DEPTH.