Changing our clothes can be easily accomplished as easy as 1-2-3. However, for our loved ones with any type of dementia, dressing up can pose as a challenge to them and to you as their caregiver. Because dementia involves a decline in many thinking functionalities including the memory, even simple tasks such as dressing can be challenging to manage.
Unless your loved one is already in their late stage of dementia, they can still manage to handle dressing on their own albeit with some assistance at times. Hence, as key providers of In-Home Care Services in Anaheim Hills, California, we would like to share some helpful tips to make these dressing up days more manageable for both of you and your loved one.
Consider the following:
- Take Them with You When Shopping for Clothes
If you need to buy additional clothing for your loved one with dementia, consider taking them with you (unless their condition makes it difficult for them to be in the presence of many people). Allow them to choose their preferred clothes so they will be more inclined to wear these. They will be more familiar with the clothes they choose; hence, they are also more likely to prefer these over other clothing options.
- Consider Duplicate Clothes
As previously mentioned, when your loved one favors a certain set of clothes, they will most likely want to wear them more often. However, they may also insist on wearing these clothes repeatedly, which is going to be unhygienic. To address that, buy duplicate clothing so that they can still wear the same clothes they want.
- Go for Simple Clothes
Because we provide Health Care in California, we know how simplicity can be very ideal for persons with dementia, be it on their food or clothes. Ensure that their clothes are styled very simply, such as being fastened by Velcro tapes instead of zippers or buttons. Simplicity avoids the chances of having aggressive instances when they feel frustrated about putting on or off their clothing.
- Allow Some Time
Your loved one with dementia may also take some time when they are putting their own clothes. It is very essential that we understand this delay so that we will not put them in a hurry, which can result in unpleasant reactions. When possible, give them as much time allowance as possible so that it can also be less stressful for you.
- Be Appreciative
As key providers of health care services, we also encourage you to express appreciation to your loved one with dementia especially when they have accomplished something. Whether it’s taking their medications correctly or getting dressed well, show your appreciation so they can be more accommodating.
If you’re in need of further help in caring for a loved one with dementia, our team at Infinite Care Solutions, Inc. can be of assistance to you. For further inquiries, call us at 800-603-9711 or email us at info@infinitecaresolutions.com.