Challenges in Dementia: Is Getting Dressed in the Morning a Battle?

Do you know a family member or patient with Alzheimer's disease who struggles with getting or staying dressed? Or with choosing appropriate clothes for the weather?

Dressing is one of the many areas that can be affected by Alzheimer's disease, as well as other kinds of dementia such as frontotemporal, Lewy body, vascular and more.

I've seen people choose the same clothes every day, put clothes on in the wrong order, be unaware that their clothes were in dire need of washing, and want to go outside in a blizzard while dressed in shorts.  Others remove clothing in inappropriate settings which can result in uncomfortable situations and an uncertainty as to how to react.

With the goal of honoring our loved one's choices and protecting their safety and dignity, what's the best approach to difficulties with clothing and dressing?

One place to start is by remembering the old adage, "Pick your battles." You and your loved one may benefit from prioritizing what's really important and addressing the top one or two areas. This approach may be more effective and may also help you feel less overwhelmed.

I've outlined 11 strategies that you may find useful for responding to these kinds of concerns in the following article: How to Respond to Problems with Dressing in Dementia.

Please feel free to comment below with questions or additional ideas that have worked for you.

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Source: About Alzheimers Disease - June 23, 2013 Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news