Introduction

Helping the person with dementia maintain his or her appearance can promote positive self-esteem. Here are some ways you can assist the person with dressing and grooming routines.

Dressing

Choosing and putting on clothes can be frustrating for the person with dementia. The person may not remember how to dress or may be overwhelmed with the choices or the task itself.

• Simplify choices. A person may panic if clothing choices become
  overwhelming. Try offering just two choices of shirts and pants.

• Provide direction. Lay out clothing in the order that each item should be put on. Hand the person one item at a time while giving short, simple instructions such as “Put on your shirt,” rather than “Get dressed.”

• Keep the closets free of excess clothing.

• Choose comfortable and simple clothing. Cardigans, shirts and blouses that button in front are easier to work than pullover tops. Substitute Velcro® for buttons, snaps or zippers, which may be too difficult to handle.

• Choose comfortable shoes. Make sure the person has comfortable, non-slip shoes.

• Get duplicate outfits. If the individual wants to wear the same outfit repeatedly, buy duplicates or have similar options available. It’s all right if the person wants to wear several layers of clothing, just make sure he or she doesn’t get overheated.

• Offer praise, not criticism, if clothing is mismatched.

• Be patient. Rushing the person can cause anxiety and frustration.

Grooming

The person with dementia may forget how to comb hair, clip fingernails or shave. He or she may forget what the purpose is for items like nail clippers or a comb.

• Maintain grooming routines. If the person goes to the beauty shop or a barber, continue this activity. If the experience becomes overwhelming, ask the barber or hairstylist to come to the person's home.

• Use favorite toiletries. Allow the person to use his or her favorite toothpaste, shaving cream, cologne or makeup.

• Use a "show me" technique. Take a brush, comb your hair, and encourage the person to copy your motions.

• Use safer, simpler grooming tools. Use cardboard nail files and electric shavers that are less threatening than clippers and razors.