DerbyCity Area Chapter of the National Spinal Cord Injury Association
ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
The Derby City Area Chapter of the N.S.C.I.A. is a membership organization for individuals with spinal cord injuries, their families, and health professionals. Founded in 1984 as a Charter Member of the N.S.C.I.A., it was incorporated under IRS Section 501 (c) 3 as a not for profit organization. The Board of Directors consists of the Officers, Past President and the Board Members At Large.
*** OFFICERS
PRESIDENT
David Allgood - (502) 589-6620
VICE PRESIDENT
Adam Ford - (502) 425-2206
TREASURER
Tom Stokes- (502) 957-5865
LIAISON TO FRAZIER INSTITUTE
Jill Farmer
FUNDRAISING CHAIR
Betty Perry—(502) 647-0368
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY/WEB MASTER
Michael Feger- (502) 647-0368
PAST PRESIDENT
Adam Ford- (502) 425-2206
BOARD MEMBERS AT LARGE-
Mike Perry
Kelly Young
NSCIA DERBY CITY CHAPTER NEWSLETTER
Editor- Barbara Davis
Contributor- David Allgood
Visit Our Website at www.DerbyCitySpinalCord.org
The Derby City Area Chapter newsletter is brought to you through the generous support of Frazier Rehab Institute.
CREATING SPA ENVIRONMENTS, CONT'D
Soothing music or nature sounds play in the background.
Potpourri might be nearby, or some scented bath oil could be added to the water. Some scents, like lavender, have a calming effect on many people.
The room is warm and free from drafts.
At the spa, the task of bathing is often split into different segments. Hands receive special treatment with a massage, cuticle treatment, and manicure. A pedicure may include a relaxing foot massage or scrub. Facials are performed with soaps, lotions, and cloths. Hair is washed and styled. A bath includes a nice long soak, and soaps or oils moisturize the skin. A full-body massage drives away built-up tension.
"Splitting the bathing regimen into discrete activities can also be adopted at home to make the overall task of bathing less of a strain," notes Tannenbaum. "For example, special attention to the feet one afternoon can feel luxurious, rather than squeezing foot care into one long, exhausting event. Some care recipients might even like the idea of `appointments' for these `special services', giving them some sense of control and of feeling pampered."
Just like the staff of a spa, bather and caregiver should discuss what the bather likes and doesn't like. Some people don't like or are afraid of having their head sprayed with water. Some people prefer to step into a filled tub, while others prefer the tub to be filled once they are seated. Discussing these preferences first can prevent difficult moments during the process.
In order to accommodate physical challenges and avoid caregiver injuries, discuss the best way to transfer to the shower or tub. Determine the smoothest transitions throughout the process of disrobing, moving into the bath, getting out, and drying off.
"Experiment with different techniques each bath time until you reach a sequence that works for both of you," Tannenbaum suggests. Consider back-saving tools like bath transfer benches, bath lifts, and handheld showers.
Think about the activity's timing. Is it best to do first thing in the morning when energy is highest or later in the day after administering appropriate pain medication?
If transferring into the bathtub is too much of a struggle but soaking is required, try bathing in bed with the EZ Bathe inflatable tub. If no soaking is required, try a sponge bath. It is possible to have a nice bathing experience without water.
No-Rinse Shampoo is a clear, lightly scented liquid that massages into the hair creating a lather. No rinsing is required—just towel dry and style. For additional convenience try the No Rinse Shampoo Cap. This no-drip solution contains a lathering shampoo and soft conditioner within a convenient "shower cap." It can be placed in the microwave for
