FAQ and Resources

My father has really bad arthritis in his right shoulder and can barely move it sometimes. Which arm do I dress first when putting on a shirt?

Always dress the weak or affected arm or leg first. In your father’s case, dress his right arm first. Then dress the stronger arm or leg. When removing clothing, reverse your steps. Take clothing off the strong side first.

My mother has dementia and she gets agitated when I try to dress her. What do I do?

Be sure you are not rushing her to dress. Also, try to follow the same routine each day so she does not think dressing is some new activity. Give her short and simple instructions as you help her dress. Respect her sense of modesty. If a task is non-essential but causing agitation, let it go and try again later when she is in a different mood.

How can I help the person I care for choose clothes that are easy to put on?

Thick, rough, or stretchy fabrics make it harder to don or remove clothing. Lightweight, smooth fabrics are much easier to slip on.