Why Would Someone with Dementia Resist Changing Clothes?

Dear Carol: My 83-year-old mother was once obsessive about her hygiene and stylish wardrobe, but now she resists changing clothes. She has early dementia and lives independently. When I visit, she’s often wearing the same clothes as the last couple of days, but she insists her outfit is clean. Getting her to change is a battle. This seems to be about more than memory loss. Any ideas? – FW

Dear FW: While wearing a “pretty clean” shirt or pants a second day is not unusual, beyond that stretches reality. I agree that this seems to be about more than memory loss. Let’s look at some possible contributing factors that may apply:
· Memory issues can make days blend together, but so can depression. I saw this with a family member after leaving her…

Continue reading on Inforum for more on the common frustration of caring for someone living with dementia who doesn’t want to change their clothes:

Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories. “For anyone having to walk the last segments of life with a loved one, read this.” …Delores

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