People with dementia often wear clothes that do not match the weather or the situation, like shorts on a cold day or pajamas to the store. This happens because the disease affects their brain in ways that make everyday choices hard.
Dementia, including Alzheimer’s, changes how a person thinks and remembers. One big issue is poor judgment. They might not realize it is winter and pick summer clothes instead. Or they forget what outfit fits a doctor’s visit or a family dinner. This comes from damage to brain areas that handle planning and awareness.
Another reason is trouble with memory and routine. They may forget where their clothes are stored or mix up the order of getting dressed, like putting socks on last. Buttons, zippers, and ties become confusing, so they grab whatever is easiest, even if it is not right for outside.
Disorientation plays a role too. They lose track of time, place, or weather. A gloomy day might feel like bedtime to them, leading to sleep clothes all day. Spatial problems make it hard to sort laundry or pick matching items.
Self-neglect adds to it. Without reminders, they wear the same outfit for days or skip changing after spills. This ties into forgetting hygiene, like not bathing, which makes clean clothes less of a priority.
Caregivers spot this as an early sign the person needs more help. It can signal it is time for memory care where staff assist with safe, proper dressing. Simple fixes help, like laying out clothes in order or choosing stretchy pants without fasteners.
Sources
https://int.livhospital.com/alzheimer-signs-7-crucial-early-indicators-women-must-know/
https://dailycaring.com/signs-of-elder-abuse-in-seniors-with-dementia/
https://www.bangkokhospital.com/en/bangkok-bone-brain/content/common-issues-and-recommendations-of-dementia-patients
https://clarkssummit.seniorlivingnearme.com/resources/when-to-move-from-assisted-living-to-memory-care-signs-to-watch
https://www.sunriseseniorliving.com/resources/dementia-and-memory-care/is-it-time-for-memory-care
https://hillmedical.com/imaging-services/health-wellness/alzheimers-screening/
