Most of us take the ease of dressing up for granted. We get ready every morning, combing our hair, putting on shoes, wearing a jacket and applying lipstick. Other than dressing appropriately for the weather or for a meeting, we don’t give it much thought at all as we leave the house. However, what if you can no longer dress yourself so easily anymore? What if you didn’t know what article of clothing to wear first? Would you feel frustrated and helpless? This happens to many older adults who have memory loss issues such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. But this act of dressing can be empowering for them too. Read on to learn more about how to make dressing easier for your loved one with dementia!
Fewer Choices
Someone who has memory loss can become overwhelmed if you give them too many choices. It is a good time to clear up their closets and give away what they don’t wear. Keep their favorite pieces of clothing that are suited for their lifestyle, in good condition, free from stains and comfortable to wear.
Match Clothing
To make life easier for everyone, simply choose a few favorite colors that can go together well. This way, their clothing will not clash no matter what they pick.
Identical Pieces
You can buy identical pieces of their favorite clothes so they always have a clean version of them to wear. This way, they won’t have to think too much about what to wear either.
Easy to Wear
Avoid clothing with difficult zippers and small buttons. Clothing with large buttons, elastic waistbands, open cardigans and Velcro closures are easier for older adults to wear.
Give Them Time
Give your loved one time to dress in the morning. Don’t rush them as that can cause them stress and anxiety.
Ascending Hanging Rods
Older adults with memory loss may be confused about the order of wearing clothes. Installing rods in ascending order will help them to know which order to put on the clothes. This can be helpful for older adults to dress on their own. Adjust the rods to the right height so they are easily reached.
Multi-Use Wardrobe
You can use a two-part wardrobe that has stored clothing on one side and daily clothing on the other. Paint the doors in two different colors so they can differentiate them.
Hanging Hooks
Another way is to hang hooks in obvious sight, outside of the closet. This makes it easy for older adults to access their favorite clothing to wear.
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