Blog > Tips For Getting A Senior With Alzheimer’s Dressed

Tips For Getting A Senior With Alzheimer’s Dressed

One of the most difficult parts of caring for a senior parent with Alzheimer’s is getting them to focus on daily tasks, like getting dressed. As their Alzheimer’s progresses even simple tasks like putting on shoes can be difficult because they may not understand what they are supposed to do. They want to please you, but don’t know how because they don’t know what you’re asking. It can lead to frustration and irritation for you and for your senior parent. Alzheimer’s care providers can help.

Many people caring for a senior parent with Alzheimer’s rely on Alzheimer’s care at home. Care providers who have experience and training in working with seniors with Alzheimer’s are a great resource.

The cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s may cause your senior parent to display confusion, agitation, and resistance. It’s essential to approach the process of getting them dressed with patience, understanding, and empathy.

Here are some helpful tips for getting a senior with Alzheimer’s dressed:

Get Dressed In A Familiar Environment
Choose a quiet and comfortable location for dressing to minimize distractions and reduce anxiety. Make sure the room is well-lit, and keep the temperature comfortable to create a soothing atmosphere.

Get Into A Routine
Consistency is key when dressing a senior with Alzheimer’s. Stick to a regular dressing routine, preferably at the same time each day or after a certain set of tasks to create familiarity and reduce resistance. For example, always go into the bedroom after brushing teeth in the morning and start the process of getting dressed.

Keep Choices Simple And Concrete
Limit the number of clothing options to avoid overwhelming the senior. Lay out two or three outfits with easy-to-use closures, such as Velcro or elastic waistbands, to make the dressing process easier. Don’t ask, “What do you want to wear today?” because that can cause confusion. Instead, offer two concrete choices like “Do you want to wear the black pants or the green?”

Make Sure Clothing Fits Comfortably
Choose clothing that is comfortable and non-restrictive. Avoid clothing with complicated buttons, zippers, or snaps, as these can be confusing and frustrating for someone with Alzheimer’s.

Use Visual Cues
For seniors with visual impairments or cognitive difficulties, using visual cues can be helpful. Show the senior the item of clothing you want them to wear or use pictures to illustrate each step of the dressing process.

Encourage Them To Help If They Can
If your senior parent can still do some tasks like putting on their socks, pulling a shirt over their head, or putting on their shoes encourage them to do what they can. This will give them a feeling of accomplishment and independence.

Redirect When Necessary
Engaging the senior in a pleasant conversation or providing a favorite toy or object can help distract them and reduce any anxiety or resistance during dressing.

Alzheimer’s Care Fort White FL – Tips For Getting A Senior With Alzheimer’s Dressed

Take It One Step At A Time
Divide the dressing process into smaller, manageable steps. Start with undergarments and gradually work towards the outer clothing. This approach can make the task less overwhelming for both the caregiver and the senior.

Go Slow And Be Patient
Dressing a senior with Alzheimer’s can take longer than expected due to cognitive challenges and potential resistance. Allow plenty of time for the dressing routine and be patient throughout the process.

Avoid Sensory Triggers
Some seniors with Alzheimer’s may have sensory sensitivities, such as discomfort with certain textures or fabrics. Be mindful of these sensitivities and choose clothing that feels comfortable to them.

Be Positive: Praise, Don’t Scold
Praise and positive reinforcement can be powerful motivators. Offer words of encouragement and compliment the senior for their cooperation during the dressing process.