Tips for Clothing Changes - Challanges with Dressing

Similarly to bathing and hygiene, changing clothing can be very difficult for persons with a memory-impairing illness to accomplish. They are confused by our seeming obsessiveness with hygiene and dressing. If they feel comfortable, they cannot understand why we insist that they remove the clothing. Use the following tips and guidelines to assist with dressing and clothing changes:

> Simplify their wardrobe. Complex clothing causes upset for you and for them. We become "fashion police" - we want their clothes to match and we try to have them "dress for the occasion" such as church services and doctor appointments. We need to minimize the amount of choices and decisions they need to make in a day. This prevents them from becoming overwhelmed. Choose clothing that is of similar style and complementary color. (Example: All pants are pull up - all shirts are pull over...) In this way, whatever they choose from the closet matches and is uncomplicated for them - keeping them independent longer.

> Lay out clothing the night before. Visual cues are very effective. If they see what they should put on, they are more likely to wear what you choose for them.

> Be matter of fact without being "bossy". Try something like: "Here's your clean shirt Mom. I'll help you put it on and then we'll go have lunch."

> Do not respond to negative statements or statements of protest. They may respond "I don't want/need to change my shirt" or "I just put this on today - leave me alone". Do not argue or attempt to prove that you are right and they are wrong - Respond with empathy and supportive statements. Try something like: "I know this is hard for you. It won't take long and I'll help you."

> Be sure to offer praise and compliments. Everyone wants to be praised and appreciated. Thank them for helping you, compliment their appearance -let them know that you care about them. People who feel they are helping and are appreciated are much more likely to be helpful and cooperative than people who feel that they are being bossed around, are a burden to others and have somehow upset the people around them.

> Take each step slowly. Do not rush them.

> Allow them to do as much for themselves as possible. If they are able to button their own shirt, allow them the time to complete this task without help from you - even if you can do it faster. This helps them keep the skills they still have through practice.

> Choose your battles wisely. Why should their be an issue over wearing multiple shirts or sweaters in the house? What is the harm in wearing two different shoes or socks in the house? There are plenty of battles that need to be fought due to safety and health risks - do not get bogged down with fighting the ones that cause no harm to anyone. Before creating a scene - ask yourself these questions: Will this issue cause harm to my family member or me? What type of upset will be caused if I try and change this issue now? Whose problem is this?

> Be patient with yourself. It is very difficult to undertake caregiving tasks and it is not uncommon to become upset or short-tempered when you are feeling stressed. When you have these feelings or find yourself becoming upset over simple issues like "clothes that match" - it's time to step back - count to ten - take a deep breath and recognize that you may need some assistance and/or a break from caregiving. There are many resouces available that may assist you in your caregiving tasks - Please contact the WNY chapter of the Alzheimer's Association for a list of area support groups or other caregiver assistance options - (716) 626-0600

For information regarding ElderWood Senior Care's Memory Care Programs, contact us at (716) 633-3900.