Winter is drawing near! It can be a challenging season for everyone, with blustery winds, icy sidewalks, and compounding snow.

Even in our homes, selecting weather-appropriate clothing that ensures comfort, warmth, and safety is vital. If you’re a caregiver for a loved one living with dementia, read on to discover the best choices for winter clothing. Here, we’re focusing on their unique needs and challenges, and all with winter weather in mind.

The Symptoms of Dementia Make Updates to Clothing Necessary

It’s important to understand that clothing modifications are often necessary because of some of the cognitive and physical symptoms of dementia.

Factors for consideration include:

• Clothing that’s safe: A good fit will remove the potential for tripping; billowing trouser bottoms or an overly long skirt are both safety hazards.
• It’s easy to regulate temperature: Layering is ideal as it can help the wearer quickly adapt to temperature and location changes with minimal fuss.
• Comfort is essential: For people living with dementia, it can be difficult to express feelings of discomfort. For this reason, soft, comfy clothing is vital.
• Independence is possible: Encouraging as much independence as possible while dressing is essential for maintaining dignity and a sense of self.
• It’s easy to put on and take off: People living with dementia may experience challenges with their fine motor skills in the middle stages of dementia, making buttons and zippers challenging. 

Difficulties with motor skills — among other symptoms — make care necessary for individuals living with dementia, whether your family provides around-the-clock care themselves or you secure professional help from highly trained and compassionate caregivers like those at Integracare Home Care. Here, caregivers can help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), like dressing, on a 24/7 basis, or as and when you need help — giving you a moment to regroup for yourself.

The Types of Winter Clothing That May Make Dressing Easier

With considerations like comfort, ease, and independence in mind, let’s explore some of the best winter clothing options for individuals who are living with dementia.

Research Adaptive Clothing

Adaptive clothing is specially designed to address the unique needs of individuals with cognitive or physical impairments. These garments typically feature Velcro fastenings, snaps, or magnets instead of buttons or zippers, making them easier to put on and take off.

Choose Layers

Sweater vests and cardigans provide warmth without being overly restrictive. Look for vests and cardigans with large buttons or oversized clasps for ease of use.

Elastic Waistband Pants

Warm and cozy pants with an elastic waistband are a great option as the weather dips. Fleecy pants and jogging bottoms are ideal.

Make Sure Footwear Is Robust

Pick non-slip footwear that provides traction on icy or wet surfaces and shoes that are easy to slide on, such as those with Velcro closures or drawstring laces.

The Bottom Line

Selecting winter clothing for someone who’s living with dementia involves thoughtful consideration of their unique needs and the challenges they may face, especially as the disease progresses. 

Prioritizing ease of use, comfort, and safety will keep your loved one warm and promote their well-being and dignity during the winter months. If you’re a caregiver, remember that their preferences and individual needs should guide clothing choices, making dressing a more comfortable and pleasant experience for both of you.

Published by HOLR Magazine.