There are many challenges that come with caring for an elderly person living with dementia. One of these is getting them dressed. It can be hard to find clothes that are comfortable and easy to wear and easy for you to help them get on and off. When they dress themselves, often they will forget how to do it, or become easily confused and frustrated.
There are several different types of dementia, and each can affect how to dress in different ways.
With vascular dementia, for example, a person may become confused about what clothes they are wearing and be unable to complete tasks such as buttoning up a shirt.
While with Alzheimer's disease, on the other hand, may forget how to dress altogether or may dress inappropriately for the weather or occasion.
Dementia can also cause a person to become agitated or anxious, which can make dressing them a challenge. It's important to be patient and take your time when helping an elderly person living with dementia get dressed. If possible, let them help with as much of the process as they are able to, even if it takes longer than usual.
It's important to be prepared for changes in an elderly person’s dressing habits as their dementia progresses. They may become less able to dress and more likely to need help with even simple tasks like putting on a shirt. It's important to be prepared for these changes and to have a plan in place for how to deal with them.
How can you make it easier on both yourself and your loved ones?
- Keep their wardrobe simple and organized. Make sure that the environment is calm and stress-free, and that there is plenty of time to get dressed.
- Set a regular dressing routine until they get used to it and can find their way around on their own.
- Offer choices whenever possible, so they feel like they're still in control. Choose natural fabrics that are soft and comfortable, like cotton or linen. Avoid anything too scratchy or constricting.
- Get a few sets of easy-on adaptive clothing that doesn't require fiddling with buttons or zippers.
- Be patient and understanding - it may take longer than usual, but they will appreciate your help.
- Don't forget to praise them when they're all dressed and looking their best. A little bit of encouragement can go a long way.
Here are our clothing recommendations that are easy to put on for elderly people living with dementia include:
- Adaptive clothing that is easy to put on and take off with velcro closures and slip-on shoes.
- Clothing that could help with their concerns about incontinence like bed pads and underwear for men or women
- Choose clothing that is easy to see. Avoid dark colors or patterns that can be confusing. Instead, opt for bright colors or simple patterns.
- Provide safety to the elderly by having non-slip socks on them.
Caring Clothing stocks adaptive clothing and support products designed to assist people with Dementia including Alzheimer's & cognitive impairment. Many items support people with incontinence issues, behavioral, wandering, or disrobing. It is clothing that is easier to put on and assist with dressing.
You can check our wide range of collections for your specific need here.
Dressing an elderly person living with dementia can be a challenge, but it's important to remember that patience and understanding are key. With the right approach, you can help make the process as easy and stress-free as possible.