PIP Activity 4: Washing and Bathing - Complete Scoring Guide

Activity 4 covers washing and bathing, including getting in and out of an unadapted bath or shower. This is PIP2 Question 6. "Unadapted" is crucial - the DWP assesses you as if you had a standard bath or shower with no grab rails, shower seat, or other adaptations.

The Descriptors and Points

a. Can wash and bathe unaided - 0 points.

b. Needs to use an aid or appliance to wash or bathe - 2 points. Shower stool, grab rails, long-handled sponge, bath board, non-slip mat. If you use ANY of these, you score at least 2.

c. Needs supervision or prompting to wash or bathe - 2 points. Someone needs to be nearby for safety, or remind you to wash.

d. Needs assistance to wash either their hair or body below the waist - 2 points.

e. Needs assistance to wash their body between the waist and neck - 3 points.

f. Cannot wash and bathe at all, needs another person to wash entire body - 4 points.

What "Unadapted" Means

The DWP should assess your ability to use a standard bath or shower WITHOUT any adaptations installed by occupational therapy. If you had grab rails fitted because you cannot get in and out safely without them, that proves you need an aid. Even if you manage WITH the grab rails, without them you would score higher. Make this clear on your form.

What Counts as Washing

Washing means cleaning your entire body to an acceptable hygiene standard. This includes reaching all parts of your body, washing your hair, cleaning intimate areas, and drying yourself. If you cannot reach your feet, your back, or wash your hair without help, you need assistance with washing.

Common Issues People Don't Mention

• Needing to sit down in the shower (shower stool = aid = 2 points)
• Only having strip washes because you cannot get in the bath/shower
• Skipping days because washing is too exhausting or painful
• Partner washing your hair or back
• Risk of falls in wet environments
• Needing to rest after showering before you can dress