Alzheimer’s disease and other memory loss conditions often gradually affect everyday activities, making once simple routines more challenging and increasing the need for support and patience from care partners.

Dressing

In the early stages, a person may benefit from simple reminders, such as where they left their shoes. As the condition progresses, they may need more supervision and hands-on assistance. A supportive, person-centered approach can help preserve independence and dignity while reducing stress.

Helpful tips

• Allow extra time. Dressing can become confusing or overwhelming. If needed, hand your loved one each item of clothing one at a time, in the order it should be put on.
• Offer simple choices. For example, say “Would you like the blue sweater or the green one?” Whenever possible, choose favorites in preferred colors, fabrics and styles.
• Pay attention to behavior. Changes in behavior may be a form of communication. If your loved one resists certain clothing or removes it at inappropriate times, it may signal discomfort, such as pain, overheating, rash or infection.
• Choose comfortable clothing. Select soft, non-restrictive garments. Tagless clothing and flat seams can help reduce irritation and pressure points. Check regularly for signs of discomfort.
• Prioritize ease and function. Clothing that is easy to put on and remove can make dressing less stressful. Adaptive designs, such as back openings or simplified fastenings, can help.
• Use reassuring body language. Stand beside — not directly in front of — the person to help them feel supported, not confronted. Gentle touch, eye contact and a calm presence can provide reassurance and build trust.

Bathing

Personal hygiene, once a familiar routine, can become confusing, disorienting and even distressing. Tasks such as washing hands, brushing teeth, shaving and nail care may become difficult. Bathing, in particular, is highly personal, and your loved one may feel embarrassed, frustrated by a loss of independence or believe they have already bathed. They may not recognize the need for help.

Start by encouraging your loved one to do as much as they can, offering gentle support only when needed so they still feel in control. Focus on one area of the body at a time, use a calm and reassuring tone and involve them throughout the process whenever possible.

Helpful tips

• Establish a consistent routine that reflects their past preferences (time of day, frequency).
• Ensure the bathroom is safe, with grab bars and a shower chair.
• Provide as much privacy as possible.
• Encourage choice, such as selecting towels or clothing.
• Make sure the room is warm before undressing.
• Prepare ahead of time. Have soap, towels and supplies within reach.
• Use soft, gentle products to avoid skin irritation.
• Always test the water temperature.
• Keep showers brief. Wash the most important areas first.
• Limit bathing to a manageable frequency (e.g., about three times per week).
• Consider alternatives such as a bath with assistance or sponge bathing.
• Demonstrate or guide the steps if needed.
• Involve a trusted family member, especially if your loved one prefers help from someone of the same gender.
• Create a calming environment with soothing music or pleasant scents.
• Offer a favorite snack or activity (e.g., TV) afterward.

Eating & Drinking

As dementia progresses, eating and drinking can become more challenging, making proper nutrition a concern. A thoughtful approach can help support nutrition while preserving dignity and comfort.

Helpful tips

• Keep a consistent routine. Sequencing the steps involved in eating may become difficult and interest in food may decline. Eating at the same time and place each day can provide structure, comfort and a sense of security. If your loved one lives alone, use reminders to prompt meals.
• Make mealtime appealing. Turn food preparation into a social activity. Invite your loved one to help with simple tasks, such as setting the table or folding napkins. Familiar foods and their aromas can stimulate appetite and evoke positive memories.
• Include favorite foods. If your loved one becomes focused on a particular meal, that’s okay. It’s often more important that they eat something rather than nothing at all. Still, aim for balance and nutrition when possible.
• Keep it simple. Make meals easy to manage by offering one item or course at a time. A crowded plate can feel overwhelming.
• Use appropriate utensils. A spoon may be easier to use than a fork. Consider adaptive utensils, such as weighted cutlery, to help with grip and reduce tremors. Pre-cut foods and finger foods can also make eating easier.
• Watch for swallowing problems. Trouble speaking may signal difficulty swallowing. Offer food slowly, making sure each bite is swallowed before the next. Keep a drink nearby. Consult a healthcare professional about the right food textures when needed.
• Make meals social. Sit and eat together when possible. Mealtime can be an opportunity for connection, conversation and gentle support.

Incontinence

Dementia often leads to bladder and bowel changes that can be distressing for both the person and the caregiver. These challenges are caused by changes in the brain that affect the ability to recognize the need to use the bathroom or control these functions.

Some individuals experience functional incontinence, meaning they recognize the urge but cannot reach the bathroom in time. This may be due to memory loss (forgetting where the toilet is), confusion (mistaking other spaces for a toilet), mobility issues, difficulty communicating needs or trouble removing clothing quickly.

Helpful tips

• Help them remember. Establish a regular bathroom schedule to ensure that the bladder is emptied frequently. If you’re going out in public, plan time for bathroom stops.
• Use easy-to-remove clothing. Elastic waistbands rather than buttons and zippers and adaptive pants with alternating waist and leg openings make frequent restroom visits easier.
• Keep pathways clear. Make sure the door to the bathroom is open and the light is on.
• Limit fluids in the evening. This makes overnight accidents less likely. Try putting a portable commode near your person’s bed.
• Use protective undergarments and bed pads. They can help manage accidents and protect skin.
• Approach the situation with patience and understanding. Reassurance, gentle reminders and a calm tone can help the person feel more comfortable.