“Why Are You Wearing My Shirt, Dad?”

Hospice in Arizona

The Beauty and Challenge of Getting Dressed with Dementia

At first, it was funny. Janie’s father came out of his room wearing her brother’s high school football jersey, inside out, with pajama pants and one cowboy boot.

They all laughed, and so did he.

But as time passed, the laughter softened. Janie started to realize that getting dressed wasn’t just a quirky moment anymore — it was a sign of something deeper. A sign that dementia was quietly weaving itself into her father’s routines.

For so many families walking the journey of dementia, getting dressed can shift from a simple daily act into a confusing, emotional, even distressing experience. It’s no longer just about clothes — it’s about dignity, identity, and connection.

At Mountain View Hospice, we believe in supporting caregivers with practical tools and tender understanding. Here are 10 heartfelt, human-centered ways to make dressing easier — not just for the one living with dementia, but for the one who loves them too:

10 Ways to Make Dressing Easier for Someone with Dementia

1. Label Drawers with Pictures & Words
   Confusion can creep in fast. Use signs with both pictures and words to help guide your loved one to their socks, shirts, or favorite cardigan.

2. Lay Out Clothes in Order
   Line up clothes on a plain surface in the order they’ll be worn. A gentle prompt — “Here’s your shirt, Dad” — can go a long way.

3. Limit the Choices
   Too many options can overwhelm. Offering just two favorite outfits helps preserve dignity while easing decision fatigue.

4. Take Your Time
   This isn’t a race. Rushing can lead to agitation. Go slow. Breathe. Let it be a shared moment.

5. Respect the Unusual
   Does Mom want to wear a polka dot blouse with striped pants? Let her. If it’s not harmful, it’s not wrong.

6. Use Visual Aids or Photos
   Keep a picture of how they used to dress — it can remind and reassure them (and you).

7. Layer Up
   Multiple light layers can be removed or added depending on how they feel — flexibility is key.

8. Encourage Clean Clothes, Gently
   If they resist changing, swap dirty clothes during bath time or casually say, “I love seeing you in that clean blue sweater.”

9. Create Comfort in the Space
   Is the room warm enough? Is the lighting gentle? Would music help? Small changes bring big peace.

10. Shop Together When Possible
    New clothes aren’t always comforting — familiar favorites often are. Buy multiples of the ones they love most.

This list isn’t just about dressing. It’s about loving with patience. About finding grace in the struggle. About honoring the person behind the diagnosis.

If you're walking this journey — as a caregiver, family member, or friend — you’re not alone. We see you. We’re here for you.

Read more dementia tips, caregiver stories, and community resources at www.mountainviewhospice.com.

Peoria, Az