Senior Care Cambridge MA
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease that affects certain parts of the nervous system, causing the elder to lose control of their voluntary muscle movement. Since someone with ALS is unable to control the movement of their arms or legs, getting dressed can be a daunting task. Not only is it difficult for the senior to zip or button their clothes, but they also find it difficult to get their arms through the armholes and legs through the leg holes. Having caregivers available to assist these seniors with the task of getting dressed will greatly help them do this much quicker.
It is important that someone with this condition be able to easily move their joints and limbs, so the best clothing options to use are lightweight and stretch-knit fabrics. Here are some other way ways your senior loved one with ALS can easily get their clothes on in the morning.
Choose the position that is right for your loved one. Some people think it is easier to get dressed while lying down, while others find that sitting is the best way to do so. If your loved one has a side that is weaker than the other, they should dress the weaker side first.
Use lightweight, supportive shoes. If the senior enjoys walking, these are the types of shoes they should consider wearing. However, if tripping is an issue with rubber-soled shoes, many people consider moccasins to be the better footwear option. In order to prevent having to constantly retie the elder’s shoes after they come loose, shoes with Velcro fasteners across the top or replacing the shoelaces with elastic laces will stop this from being a frequent battle.
Wear flexible clothing. Clothing that is too tight and restrictive will be extremely uncomfortable for someone to wear who has ALS. Cotton/polyester blends are ideal because they move with the body. If the senior is in a wheelchair and is in need of a jacket, opt for a poncho or cape since they are easier to get on and off. Pants with heavy seams may create added pressure on the skin, so should be avoided.
Dress for success. Just because the senior has ALS and is required to use a wheelchair does not mean they should wear bland, boring clothes. In fact, attractive clothing will help boost your loved one’s self-esteem.
Living with ALS can be difficult for both the senior and their caregiver, but these tips will help find the clothing options that fit and look the best.
Source: http://www.alsa.org/als-care/resources/publications-videos/factsheets/dressing-with-ease.html
If you or an aging loved one are considering Senior Care Services in Cambridge MA, or anywhere in Eastern Massachusetts, please call the caring staff at CARE Resolutions – (508) 906-5572.
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