Welcome to Ask Helga, a Q&A series designed to support families navigating the challenges of caring for aging loved ones. Each post features real questions from family caregivers, answered by Helga Pfanner – Chief Executive Officer of CareCo HomeCare, founder of CareCo Medical Home Health, and Executive Director of the CareCo Foundation. With a deep commitment to helping seniors and individuals with disabilities remain independent and safe, Helga brings practical guidance and compassionate insight to the issues families face.
Question: “Helga, my parent won’t bathe. How do we handle hygiene without a fight?”
Helga’s Answer: Hygiene is often about dignity, fear, or feeling exposed—not stubbornness. Try smaller steps: ‘Let’s do a freshen-up’ instead of ‘a shower.’ Warm the bathroom, offer privacy, and keep the routine consistent. A caregiver can make it feel normal and respectful—often with far less tension than family involvement.
If you’re caring for a parent at home and need guidance, Helga is here to help. Call 860-813-3026 to ask your own question or to learn how CareCo HomeCare can support your family. The right help can make all the difference – reach out today.
