In helping a person with Alzheimer's disease to select and put on clothing, be mindful of the choices he used to make, and try to honor that taste and style. For example, if an elderly man had worn a tie every day to work, but could no longer tie the knot and was frustrated if he could not put the tie on every day, a simple solution is to tie several in advance for him and let him slip the ties on and off. That may be easier for him to do and save you time. Sometimes a "clip on" tie will work also.
NOTE: Clean out closets and drawers so that out of season or difficult to clean clothes will not be temptingly in view.
Most people have favorite colors, textures, and types of clothing--and people with dementia often want to wear the same outfit all the time. If you get duplicates of the items the person always wants to wear, he can still be comfortable when clothes are being washed and you will avoid arguments and explanations.
Lay out clothing in the order in which it should be put on. This will provide a cue to those who are unsure what to put on next, and will generally make the process run more smoothly when you have to assist. You will also not need to leave the person to go find a missing piece.
- Use clothes that are easy to put on.
- Store all like clothes together.
- Use shoes that slip on or fasten with Velcro®.
- Use socks rather than pantyhose.
- Use pants and skirts with elastic waistbands.
- Use bras with front openers.
- Avoid clothes that have to be put on over the head.
- Replace buttons with Velcro closures.
Sometimes, people with Alzheimer's disease will undress at inappropriate times. If it is because he is fidgeting and unintentionally opening buttons, consider sweaters without buttons, or a one-piece jump suit. Sometimes, wearing an apron will be a distraction. If things are sewn onto the apron, that will give the person something to touch and feel with his hands, distracting him from trying to remove a shirt or pants.
It may be best to have a frail person or someone with poor balance or a disability sit down when you help dress him, unless of course he is bed bound. If the person has a "weak" side, dress it first.
