He wears the same thing 24/7 for weeks. Says he loses his breath when he changes. He does have heart and breathing problems and he sleeps in a recliner. We end up in argument every time I tell him he smells. He doesn't believe it because he washes (sort of).
Don’t get mad. Just present him with clean clothes. Let him fuss. He’ll soon stop when he’s out of breath. Put something in his chair like a loaded laundry basket when he gets up and change him then.
Don’t bring him food to his chair unless he changes. Use what you have. Maybe you can’t find the remote until he changes. Anyone that has enough energy to argue has enough energy to change. Maybe just clean his feet and legs one day. Fresh socks. The next day his face and hands. Another day his arms. Etc.
it’s a common problem if it makes you feel any better. Most caretakers and patients feel better once the barriers are down.
And washing our clothes is just necessary. Pick out his two fav outfits (probably seasonal) and ‘wash up’ and put the clean pair on while washing the dirty. My arthritis has caused my spine to twist so I like loose pants or capris. Loose fitting tops. I have one jacket (warm climate) and slide on shoes.
Hire a person to come wash him up from an agency or freelance if all else fails.
In his earlier years, did he like Old Spice? It is now made in a body wash.
One thing to remember as as we get older, taking a shower is as exhausting as going to the gym.
Try buying nice smelling baby wipes that are easy to use on his arms, legs, and private parts. I use them when I don't have time or energy to use the shower.