It’s a common and delicate situation: you’re caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s, and you’ve noticed they’re struggling with everyday tasks, like getting dressed. You want to help, but you’re also deeply aware of their need to maintain independence and dignity. It’s a natural instinct to want to tread carefully, avoiding anything that might make them feel more dependent.
Parkinson’s can bring about changes in fine motor skills, making tasks that once seemed simple, like getting dressed, feel like monumental challenges. Your instinct to tread carefully and avoid making your loved one feel dependent is truly commendable.
Making changes to clothing and the dressing routine can reduce frustration. Follow these tips to simplify your dressing routine:
- Take your time getting dressed. Hurrying can lead to stress, which can make Parkinson’s symptoms worse.
- Dress when your medications are working well. This may require waiting until later in the morning to get dressed, but it will ensure you have the best mobility possible.
- Do a few stretching exercises before getting dressed to warm up your muscles.
- Be aware of stiff limbs. If one arm or leg has more stiffness, put this limb into the sleeve or pant leg first.
- Sit down when dressing. Choose a chair with firm support and arms. Sitting on the edge of the bed to dress can lead to loss of balance and falling.
- Use a footstool and consider assistive devices like long handled shoehorns. These tools make it easier to put on shoes and socks.
- Consider adaptive clothing tools such as a button hook, dressing stick, zipper pulls or sock aid helper.
Adaptive Makeup and Hair Tips
For many people with Parkinson’s, applying makeup can be a challenge ? especially when fine motor skills are needed. Here are some tips for adapting the makeup application process:
- Switch to skincare products with a pump mechanism or transfer your preferred products to bottles with a pump.
- Apply makeup while sitting instead of standing. When possible, rest your arm on a surface to apply makeup.
- Consider purchasing a vanity mirror so you can apply makeup sitting at a surface in your home.
- Use foam tubing grips. These grips can help provide more surface area for hand-held items, like brushes.
- Purchase a hair dryer stand that you can attach to a surface.
Navigating the challenges Parkinson’s presents in daily activities like dressing requires a thoughtful balance of support and respect for your loved one’s autonomy. By implementing these practical strategies, from adapting clothing and routines to exploring assistive devices and modified self-care techniques, you can significantly ease the process. Remember, the goal is to foster independence and maintain dignity while providing the necessary assistance, ultimately enhancing your loved one’s comfort and quality of life.
Source: Parkinson’s Foundation
We hope this information is helpful to you in the important work you do as a family caregiver.
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