As the owner of Fairfield Family Care in Stamford, Connecticut, Gary Ferone matches skilled caregivers with those in need of help, whether for themselves or for a loved one. Gary Ferone employs a staff of professionals who are experienced in caring for older adults with dementia.
When a person has dementia, the act of getting dressed can be challenging. The person may begin to forget how to put on clothes and may become overwhelmed, not only with the wardrobe choices available, but with the complexity of the task itself. It falls to the caregiver to simplify the process and help make dressing feel approachable.
Individuals with dementia do feel empowered when they have a choice of what to wear, but too many choices can be difficult. The caregiver can bridge this gap by offering the person two options for each garment. The next step can be to lay out the garments, though some individuals will need their caregivers to hand them garments one at a time.
The person may also need guidance as to how to put on the clothing. Directives such as “put your arm in the sleeve” and “pull up the zipper” can lead him or her through the process. If the person finds zippers or buttons frustrating, Velcro can be easier to use, just as a cardigan can be more manageable than a pull-over top.
The caregiver should also ensure that the room is warm enough for the person to feel comfortable taking off the clothes that he or she is already wearing, and that any blinds are closed for privacy. Chairs or other balance aids may be necessary, depending on the person's physical abilities. The ultimate goal is for the individual to feel comfortable and safe throughout the dressing process, so that he or she does not begin to associate it with physical or emotional distress.
When a person has dementia, the act of getting dressed can be challenging. The person may begin to forget how to put on clothes and may become overwhelmed, not only with the wardrobe choices available, but with the complexity of the task itself. It falls to the caregiver to simplify the process and help make dressing feel approachable.
Individuals with dementia do feel empowered when they have a choice of what to wear, but too many choices can be difficult. The caregiver can bridge this gap by offering the person two options for each garment. The next step can be to lay out the garments, though some individuals will need their caregivers to hand them garments one at a time.
The person may also need guidance as to how to put on the clothing. Directives such as “put your arm in the sleeve” and “pull up the zipper” can lead him or her through the process. If the person finds zippers or buttons frustrating, Velcro can be easier to use, just as a cardigan can be more manageable than a pull-over top.
The caregiver should also ensure that the room is warm enough for the person to feel comfortable taking off the clothes that he or she is already wearing, and that any blinds are closed for privacy. Chairs or other balance aids may be necessary, depending on the person's physical abilities. The ultimate goal is for the individual to feel comfortable and safe throughout the dressing process, so that he or she does not begin to associate it with physical or emotional distress.
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