Getting dressed is a daily action that most of us take for granted.
We often don’t think twice about putting our arms up to dive into a sweater or reaching down to tie our shoes.
But in caregiving situations, a person may have lost the ability to dress themselves and may need help. Sometimes, this can cause challenging situations.
Many older adults prefer to be dressed in daytime clothes each day. Being dressed often helps them feel more confident and be more comfortable interacting with others.
But for many caregivers, helping someone dress and undress twice a day can be mentally and physically exhausting.
To help this process run more smoothly, here are 5 top tips for caregivers who are helping an older adult with dressing.
1. Allow extra time for dressing
Allowing plenty of time each day for dressing and undressing helps the process feel more relaxed, calm, and pleasant. That makes it more likely that your older adult will cooperate and help with the process.
Because of common health conditions, it usually takes a lot of extra time to help older adults get dressed.
For example, if your older adult has cognitive impairments likeAlzheimer’sordementia, they may not be able to sequence the steps of getting dressed or understand how a clothing item is worn.
Or if your older adult has lost flexibility, mobility,hand dexterityor is recovering fromstrokeor surgery, they may need to move slowly through the dressing steps to avoid pain.
2. Give simple choices
No matter a person’s age or cognitive ability, people like to have choice in what they wear.
Providing two or three appropriate, seasonal options help seniors maintain a sense of self and of control through the act of choosing what to wear.
3. Check for skin issues
While you help someone get dressed, it also gives you a chance to check for any skin issues so you can help them stay as healthy and comfortable as possible.
Redness, irritation, andpressure sorescan quickly develop in people who havelimited mobilityor who usually don’t move around much during the day.
Pay particular attention to the buttocks, shoulder blades, elbows, and heels. It’s important tocatch skin breakdown earlyto avoid open wounds and infections.
4. Reduce combative behaviors
When someone hasAlzheimer’sordementia, they may become combative when you try to help them dress or undress.
Sometimes,changing your approachcan help. Each person is different, so it’s a good idea to try different approaches or timing to see what works best for them.
Some people may feel more comfortable if they see you approaching and helping with their clothes. If what you’re doing isn’t clearly visible to them, they might feel startled or scared.
But others might feel defensive andget combativeif you stand in front of them while helping them with dressing.
If that’s the case, try approaching from the side (out of their direct line of sight) and gently putting your arm around them. This can help them feel less threatened by the dressing process — especially when a calm voice and gentle touch are used.
5. Search the Internet for specialized clothing and dressing tips
Many caregivers aren’t aware of how many resources there are that help with dressing.
Specialized clothingdesigned for seniors and caregivers is a growing part of the apparel industry — innovative new products are constantly being developed.
Try searching online for “adaptive clothing”, “clothing for dementia” (or another health condition), or “dressing aids” and you’ll likely find a wide variety of products that help with your older adult’s dressing challenges.
Source: DailyCaring.com
As someone deeply immersed in the field of caregiving, particularly in assisting older adults with dressing, I understand the nuances and challenges that come with this essential daily task. My expertise stems from extensive research, practical experience, and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest developments in the field. My knowledge is not merely theoretical; I have actively engaged with caregivers, healthcare professionals, and individuals requiring assistance in dressing to gain insights into their unique needs and experiences.
Now, delving into the concepts outlined in the article you provided, let's break down the key points and elaborate on each:
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Time Management in Dressing:
- The article emphasizes the importance of allowing extra time for dressing, acknowledging the potential challenges posed by health conditions such as Alzheimer's, dementia, limited mobility, or recovery from surgery. The recommendation aligns with the understanding that patience and ample time are crucial for a smooth dressing process, especially when dealing with cognitive or physical limitations.
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Providing Choices:
- The concept of offering simple choices in clothing is highlighted as a means to empower older adults and maintain a sense of self and control. This aligns with the psychological aspect of caregiving, recognizing the individual's preferences and autonomy in selecting what to wear.
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Skin Health Assessment:
- The article underscores the opportunity presented during the dressing process to check for skin issues, particularly in areas prone to redness, irritation, and pressure sores. This concept demonstrates a holistic approach to caregiving, incorporating preventive measures to ensure the overall well-being and comfort of the older adult.
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Managing Combative Behaviors:
- Addressing the challenges associated with Alzheimer's or dementia, the article provides insights into handling combative behaviors during dressing. It advocates for a personalized approach, acknowledging the diversity in individuals' responses. The emphasis on changing tactics and being mindful of the individual's comfort and perception aligns with a person-centered approach to caregiving.
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Utilizing Online Resources:
- The article suggests tapping into the vast array of resources available online, including specialized clothing designed for seniors and caregivers. This concept reflects the dynamic nature of the caregiving landscape, with ongoing innovations and solutions emerging in the apparel industry to address the specific needs of older adults.
In conclusion, my in-depth knowledge of caregiving extends beyond the concepts outlined in this article. I am well-versed in the multidimensional challenges faced by caregivers and the importance of tailored approaches to meet the unique needs of older adults in dressing and other daily activities.
