How do we help a stroke patient get dressed?

Why dressing is harder after a stroke

Dressing uses balance, arm movement and coordination, all of which a stroke can affect. What was quick before now takes time.

Rushing can lead to frustration or a loss of balance. A calm pace makes everything safer.

With some simple changes, dressing can become easier for both the person and the caregiver.

Simple ways to make it easier

Sit down to dress when balance is a worry, on a firm chair or the edge of the bed. This lowers the fall risk.

Loose clothing, larger openings and front fastenings are easier to manage. Lay items out in the order they go on.

As a general guide, the weak arm or leg goes into clothing first, and comes out last. This is gentler on the weak side.

Protecting the weak arm

The weak arm and shoulder can be hurt if pulled or forced through a sleeve. Handle it gently and support it.

Never tug the person by the weak hand or wrist. Guide the limb rather than pulling it.

If dressing causes pain in the shoulder, ease off and tell us or the doctor so we can look at it.

How a physiotherapist helps

Dressing is a daily task that also builds useful movement. We often use it as practice, not just a chore.

We work on the sitting balance, arm movement and coordination that make dressing possible, and teach the caregiver safe ways to help.

As the person improves, we encourage them to do more of it themselves, at a safe pace.

Building independence over time

In the early days, the caregiver may do most of the dressing. Over time, the aim is for the person to do more themselves.

We encourage them to take on the parts they can manage safely, even if it is slower at first. Doing a task builds both movement and confidence.

We adjust how much help is given as the person improves. The goal is a person who feels more capable, not one who waits to be dressed each day.