Things you have always taken for granted, like getting dressed and washing, can start to take a long time or become risky as Parkinson’s progresses. Changing just a few things makes them much easier.
When and how you dress matters
Get dressed while your medication is working at its best. Movement is easier once the medication has taken effect than right after you swallow your morning dose. Rather than perching on the edge of the bed, sit in a sturdy chair with armrests to steady yourself and get ready — it is safer — and a gentle stretch before you start leaves your muscles less stiff. When you put clothes on, work the more affected or stiffer arm or leg into the sleeve or trouser leg first; it is far more comfortable that way. Choosing what to wear each morning also takes energy and time — hanging up a few days’ outfits in advance, or simplifying your combinations, noticeably shortens the morning routine.
Try changing fabrics and fasteners
Small buttons are especially hard when your hands tremor or fine finger movement is difficult. Switching to velcro or magnetic fasteners makes dressing and undressing much easier, and you can have them fitted to clothes you already own. For waistbands, elastic or stretch bands are more comfortable than a belt, and it is best to avoid high-friction fabrics like velour, which drag against the skin. For socks, look for non-slip socks without a tight elastic band; for shoes, lightweight ones with velcro or elastic laces.
Safety comes first when you wash
A tub or shower should have at least two professionally installed grab bars. Towel rails, soap dishes and faucets must never be used as grab bars — they cannot take your weight and can break off. Put a slip-resistant mat on the floor, and use liquid soap rather than a bar, which is less likely to slip out of your hands. Turning the water heater down to 120°F (49°C) or lower is a safe way to prevent scalds.
Sit down to wash your face, brush your teeth and shave
Brushing your teeth, shaving and doing your hair are all better done sitting than standing — it prevents falls and saves your energy. Resting your elbows on the sink also helps if your arms or shoulders tire easily. Using an electric razor instead of a blade greatly reduces the risk of cuts when your hands are shaky. If you wear makeup, pump bottles are easier to squeeze than tubes, and a brush with a thick handle is easier to grip than a thin one. Some people find that listening to music with a clear rhythm while brushing their teeth makes the movement easier, because they can move to the beat.
Equipment makes it much easier
If standing on your own feels unsteady, wash sitting on a tub transfer bench or shower chair, and use a handheld showerhead so you have to change position less. A shelf mounted between shoulder and knee height lets you reach shampoo and soap without bending. Smaller aids help too — a buttonhook, a zipper pull, a sock aid. An occupational therapist can give you specific recommendations about which ones suit you.
If you’re a care partner helping out
The most important thing when helping someone dress is allowing plenty of time. Rushing makes symptoms worse through stress, and often ends with the person unable to do even the parts they could have managed themselves. Choosing clothes in shapes that are easy to help with — front-opening tops, underwear that fastens at the front — also reduces the load on you. When you help, give short, simple instructions one at a time (“this arm first”); they are easier to follow than several movements explained at once.
Be ready just in case
If you fall in the bathroom it can be hard to call for help, so keep a phone or an emergency call device within reach. If washing alone worries you, one option is to choose a time when someone else is nearby.
This article is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. If daily activities are a significant struggle, consider asking for a referral to an occupational therapist.
