Best clothing for seniors

Why do you need to consider different options for clothing for seniors with dementia?

For many people, dressing can seem like an easy task. However, dressing can be particularly hard for people with dementia. That’s why it's important to consider different and easy clothing options to make life easier and reduce their reliance on caregivers for dressing. Thankfully, there are many adaptive clothing options or specialised dementia clothing for people with dementia, aiming to maintain their independence, dignity and identity for as long as possible. 

Benefits of comfort clothing for seniors with dementia

Comfort clothing can be a game-changer for people with dementia. Comfort clothing for seniors typically has more key features or adaptations to make dressing easier for people with dementia. For example, a person with dementia will find it easier to put on an item of clothing that has a Velcro fastening compared to buttons or zips, which can be fiddlier, causing frustration and stress. People with dementia are more likely to feel better about themselves when they can dress themselves as much as possible, at their own pace.

5 types of adaptive clothing for seniors:

Adaptive clothing, also known as easy-wear clothing for seniors, is designed to make dressing easier, safer and more comfortable for seniors. Dressing can seem like a simple task, but this may not be the case for all. Adaptive clothes tend to be more functional and benefit those living with limited mobility, chronic pain, cognitive impairments and sensory issues. 

1. Pull on trousers - Pull-on trousers feature a strategically placed elasticated waistband instead of the usual zip and button combination. This easy-to-wear clothing allows seniors to quickly pull on a garment because of a stretchy waistband, offering them control over their routine. As you age, motor functions may reduce, making it more difficult or time-consuming to dress yourself with clothes that feature buttons or zips, as they require precision, grip strength and finger flexibility. Pull-on trousers also offer the flexibility to adapt to any body swelling. 

2. Velcro fastening - Any piece of clothing that relies on a zip or buttons can be adapted with a Velcro fastening. Swapping complex closures with Velcro means that people with dementia will find it easier to open and close their clothing independently, as they are easier to manage and reduce the need for fine motor skills that zips or buttons require. As well as this, Velcro fastening reduced the risk of discomfort compared to zips or buttons, which can be seen as tight or restrictive. 

3. Magnetic buttons - A good option to opt for, as traditional buttons can be difficult if you’re living with cognitive impairment or dexterity. Magnetic buttons offer a more straightforward way of dressing because of their automatic fastening, requiring little effort. Not only can they preserve their dignity, but being able to dress independently can boost a person's well-being and a sense of accomplishment.

4. Loose-fitting and soft materials - Both allow for easier movement, offering a high level of comfort and ease of use. Soft fabrics include cotton or bamboo breathable fabrics, which reduce skin irritation and regulate body temperature. These fabrics are better, as they reduce the likelihood of someone with dementia taking their clothes off in public, if they are too hot and need to cool down. Ideal for seniors with limited dexterity and pressure point sensitivity

5. Slip-on and Velcro fasten shoes and slippers - Slip-ons or Velcro allow secure fastening, eliminating the need to tie laces, which can be difficult for the elderly or people with limited mobility. These shoes are designed to support people in their daily routines and to maintain their independence and dignity. You can also opt for slip-on slippers with a GPS function to help find a person with dementia’s whereabouts. 

How do you get a person with dementia to change clothes?

Sometimes, a person with dementia may refuse to change even after days of wearing the same outfit, or they may want to wear the same clothes they’ve been wearing all day to sleep. Here are some helpful tips to help a person with dementia to change their clothes: 

• Encourage them to change for an occasion, e.g. someone coming to visit.
• Express how much you’d like to see them wearing something different. 
• If they want to wear the same outfit, have more than one of the same outfit.
• Replace dirty clothing with clean clothing when the person is bathing or going to bed
 

Why do people with dementia take their clothes off?

Like their cognitive abilities, people can experience loss of inhibitions. Common in certain types of dementia, such as frontotemporal dementia (FTD) – which is damage to the frontal lobes in the brain. They may display inappropriate behaviour, such as taking off their clothes. This is not intentional, but as a result of their symptoms. For example, a common symptom of dementia is confusion, which could lead them to mistake someone for their current or past partner so they may behave as they normally would towards them.

Further ideas to help independence and mental health

We support the elderly and people with dementia every day. See how we help our residents live meaningful lives, maintain independence, and optimise wellbeing.