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Clothing satisfies functional, social and aesthetic needs
for all people, but the role of clothing differs in later life
for a person. Health, lifestyle, self-esteem and experience all
are factors to consider when selecting clothing for the elderly.
The elderly first must consider protection and comfort in
clothing selection. Temperature variations affect the elderly
person more quickly than a younger person. Changes in the
skin--including dryness, thinning, yellowing and loss of
elasticity--affect functional clothing needs. The skin may be
more sensitive to rough textures and heavy fabrics, as well
as temperature changes.
Clothing helps satisfy the need for social acceptance,
belonging and group identity, regardless of age. How a person
dresses is a major factor in helping them fit in to a new
situation. Elderly people often move to a new home, perhaps even
a new community. Many lose a spouse or friends and must develop
new friendships and relationships. Appearance sends an important
message to others as they make new friends.
Depressed people often ignore their appearances, but
clothing can be used to combat this depression. When the outer
"self" looks good, it's easier for the "inner" self to feel good.
Clothing selection may be a good place to start to improve an
elderly person's outlook and encourage social interaction.
Functional needs also should be considered in clothing
selection. If the elderly have clothing that makes dressing
easier, they will be more confident in their own abilities and
independence, which can help in their other daily tasks.
Here are some suggestions as you help elderly select
clothing.
- Clothing should be easy to care for, easily cleaned and
require little or no ironing.
- Consider three safety requirements--flame retardant,
thermal insulation and fabric weight.
- Clothes should be comfortable and easy to put on and
take off without causing pain and discomfort. Elastic at the
waist or wrist, front closures, and velcro or zipper closures
make dressing easier to manage.
- Clothing should make the person feel and look
attractive. It should be similar in style to clothes worn by
friends. It also should show off the wearer's good points and
conceal any physical limitations.
- Feet deserve well-fitted shoes, not slippers or worn-out
footwear. Sore feet will hinder a person's mobility.
Physical changes in the elderly often make it necessary
to adjust design features of garments. Dresses without waistline
seams or definite shoulder lines and slacks with plenty of
room in the stomach and crotch area will be more comfortable and
flattering. Necklines should conceal the looseness and wrinkling
of neck skin. Half-size clothing may relieve fitting
problems for women. Both men and women should have loose jackets
or sweaters that can be taken off or put on easily as
temperatures vary.
When you help an elderly person make clothing selections,
remember clothing plays an important part in their self-esteem,
attitude and comfort.
For more information, contact your local
Colorado State University Extension office.
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Updated Tuesday, November 27, 2007
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