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Real members of myALZteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
July 28, 2017
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Answer Summary

Members shared the deeply relatable struggle of getting loved ones with dementia to wear clean clothes and maintain hygiene, with many noting... Read more

Members shared the deeply relatable struggle of getting loved ones with dementia to wear clean clothes and maintain hygiene, with many noting that logic and reasoning no longer work and that resistance often stems from a need to maintain control and independence. Several members found success with gentle routines like laying out clothes in advance, removing dirty items during showers, timing hygiene tasks for when the person is most cooperative (often mornings), and sometimes having another family member step in when the caregiver has become too associated with being bossy. A recurring theme was the importance of working within the person's reality rather than forcing compliance, prioritizing safety and emotional well-being over appearance, and accepting that some days cooperation simply won't happen no matter how carefully you approach it.

A myALZteam Member

I always chose the outfits for them. Then i would move with them at thier pace and sometime kind of mimic them. Talking low and calm would help. I once had a pt that would walk in circles. As long as i did circles with them that person would do whatever i wanted. It takes some time but you will learn what motivates them. And most of the time it will work for you.

August 12, 2017
A myALZteam Member

I also lay out his clothes and take away the dirty ones. But, my guy has an issue with changing his underwear, so I make him change them every night after he gets washed. If I don't do these things, he would wear the same clothes forever!

August 23, 2017
A myALZteam Member

I get him ready to shower by having him hand me his t shirt underwear, socks and sometimes his pants or shorts if they are dirty. I then put those in the hamper while he showers and bring fresh clothes out while he showers.

July 30, 2017
A myALZteam Member

In my case, I choose the clothes and then assist her in changing. I am allowed by my wife; but leading gently is the key.

August 7, 2017
A myALZteam Member

I also have a husband that can’t be coaxed when he is in that “don’t tell me zone”. Thankfully it will generally pass and I will Re approach the task that needs to be done and that would be his meds, insulin, eye drops glaucoma, heart meds. I don’t push it with changing clothes.

October 25, 2022

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