Having PD it is essential to develop a routine and these should begin first thing in the morning to start the day. First take your medications and allow time for them to work because you don’t want an “off” period and have frustration. Start with your bathroom routine bathing and grooming afterward get dressed for the day making certain to allow time to complete each task. Conserve time, energy and minimize stress by laying out your clothes in order you will put on learning simple techniques about how to get in and out of your garments with efficiency. Place the clothes on the side most affected by Parkinson’s so the function is easier; next dress the side which has the most flexibility.

Getting in trousers, slacks, gym suits, panty hose or jogging pants can be challenging especially in the latter stages of Parkinson’s. The care-partner can provide great support with this procedure making it simpler and easier; allow them to assist if needed. Lie back on the bed feet in the air and have them place these garments on by lowering the garment on the legs letting gravity assist. In selecting clothes look for those which are loose fitting. Those with zippers or snaps, instead of buttons, on the ankles and pant legs are a great help. Anywhere there are buttons make and effort to find clothes with snaps, specifically in the waist, shirtfront or cuff areas of the garment. Consistently look for garments and clothing utilizing Velcro, if you have a good tailor or seamstress have them alter your garments using Velcro. It can close sneakers, seals seams on dresses, skirts, pants or cuffs.

In order to put on shirts, blouses and shoes sit on a stool or chair. When putting on shoes a long-handled shoehorn is excellent tool, attempt to find footwear with Velcro straps vs. lace shoes, it is easier. A flexible plastic trough will aid in putting on stocking and socks. In selecting clothes select those that are uncomplicated to put on. Clothes which have elastic waistbands open in the front, bras that hook in the front and those with Velcro. Tube socks over dress socks and women should avoid pantyhose if possible.

The tab on a zipper can be a real challenge to hold on to and pull, a simple key ring through the slot on the zipper tab makes it easy to garb and pull. For those men who wear a tie, look for clip on ties which you can find in department stores or the internet.