Difficulty getting dressed

Difficulty getting dressed can start without you even noticing. Later on, you may find that you can no longer put on certain items of clothing or that you dread getting changed.

You may, for example, notice that:

it is difficult to put on socks or shoes;
if you have difficulty with buttons, zips or laces;
bending down or reaching causes pain;
you quickly get out of breath whilst getting dressed;
you lose your balance whilst standing on one leg;
if you need help putting on or taking off your clothes;
you avoid wearing clothes that you actually like to wear;
Getting dressed takes a lot of energy at the start of the day.

Sometimes this can also affect how you feel. You may feel dependent or become insecure about your body. That is understandable. Getting dressed is a personal matter and directly affects your independence.

Getting dressed can become more difficult due to pain, stiffness, tiredness or reduced strength. Problems with balance, shortness of breath or reduced sensation in the hands and feet can also play a part.

Sometimes, difficulty getting dressed is caused by problems with the shoulders, back, hips, knees, feet or hands. This makes movements such as bending over, turning or raising an arm more difficult. Getting dressed can also feel more difficult following an illness, an operation or a period of reduced physical activity.

The surroundings also play a part. An awkward chair, limited space, poor lighting or clothing that is difficult to fasten can make getting dressed more difficult than it needs to be.

Small adjustments can make a big difference. It helps not to see getting dressed as something that has to be done quickly, but as a task that you can organise efficiently.

For example, you could:

Get your clothes ready before you start;
getting dressed whilst sitting down, as standing takes too much energy;
opt for clothing with easy fastenings;
wear shoes that are sturdy and easy to put on;
take enough time so that you do not have to rush;
Start by dressing the side that is most difficult to move;
using aids, such as a long shoehorn or a sock aid;
Take a rest if getting dressed takes a lot of energy.

Please also bear your safety in mind. If you feel unsteady whilst getting dressed, it is often safer to do so whilst seated. This is particularly true when putting on socks, trousers and shoes.

It is a good idea to seek help if getting dressed becomes increasingly difficult or if you find that you no longer wear certain items of clothing because you cannot put them on. It is also a good idea to ask for help if you are afraid of falling or experience pain when moving. Even if you would prefer to remain independent, it is a good idea to seek advice.

Don’t wait until getting dressed becomes a daily struggle. There are often practical solutions that make getting dressed easier. Sometimes this involves an aid. Sometimes it’s a matter of changing the order in which you get dressed. A different posture or a small adjustment in the bedroom or bathroom can also help.

Together, we’ll look at which parts of getting dressed are difficult. In doing so, we’ll pay attention to your movements, your energy levels, your safety and the clothes that are important to you.

A occupational therapist can practise with you how to make getting dressed easier. The occupational therapist advising on aids, clothing choices and safe ways of moving. If pain, strength or balance are factors, a physiotherapist help. If you are feeling tired or find it difficult to manage your energy, you can lifestyle-oriented support should be appropriate.

We are looking for a way that suits you. The aim is to make getting dressed a calmer, safer and more independent process again.

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