Professionals break down Alzheimer’s into three main stages. Mild is the early stage where symptoms are not alarming. Moderate or mid-stage Alzheimer’s is noticeable with a clear lack of organizational skills, memory impairment, mood changes, and even incontinence. In the late stages, seniors usually need help with dressing.
If your dad is in the late stages of Alzheimer’s, dressing him can seem like a tremendous chore. There are clothing items that will make this task much easier.
Yoga Pants and Side-Opening Pants
Realistically, anything with a soft waistband that is pulled up makes it easier to dress your dad. Yoga pants are a popular choice because they can look like a casual pair of slacks. If there are events your dad needs to attend, a pair of black yoga pants are ideal.
You can also look for pants that have Velcro or zipper openings on the side. Rather than having a button and zipper front, they unfasten from the side and slip on and off with ease. Just make sure the waistband is elastic and soft. If it’s scratchy, it’s likely that your dad will hate wearing them. Fleece or cotton are ideal fabrics.
Adaptive Shirts
Your dad will not enjoy having shirts pulled over his head. If the neck is tight at all, he may panic while you’re pulling on the shirt. Adaptive shirts slip on like a dress shirt, but instead of fastening in the front, they wrap around the back and fasten on the back shoulder and down the side. There’s no need for your dad to have to move his arms while you put it on.
If your dad still likes to dress himself, Velcro or magnets are easier for someone with Alzheimer’s to close. If you’re fastening his shirts and pants, zippers or snaps make less noise and are easy to work with.
Slip-On Shoes
Shoes need to slip on. If you can avoid shoes with laces, it’s best. Clogs are good, but so are loafers or Velcro sneakers. No matter which you pick, look for memory foam inserts for comfort and traction that grips the floor. You don’t want him slipping while he walks around.
Dressing your father will become tedious. He may fight you and insist he can do it himself. Don’t force him. If you need to take a break, don’t delay that decision. Respite care from our home care agency enables you to walk away for a little while. Home care aides provide a full range of home care services that help you and your dad manage the devastating symptoms Alzheimer’s causes. Learn more now.
If you or a loved one are considering Home Care Services in McKeesport PA, please call and talk to the caring staff at Extended Family Care of Pittsburgh at (412) 693-6009. We will answer all of your questions.
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