Assisting with changing clothes in bed | How to put on and take off front-opening clothing for bedridden individuals

The basics of changing clothes are to "put on clothes from the side that is harder to move" and "take off clothes from the side that is easier to move." Following this order reduces the strain of forcing arm and leg movements. When changing clothes in bed, front-opening clothing is recommended as it is easier to assist with.

How to put on a jacket

① Put your arm through the sleeve, starting with the arm that is harder to move. ② Turn onto your side so that the arm you put on is on top. ③ Return to lying on your back, adjusting the garment to fit your back, so that you can put your other arm through the sleeve. ④ Put your other arm through the sleeve. ⑤ Adjust the garment while turning over in your sleep. ⑥ Button it up.

Putting on and taking off pants

When putting them on, slip the hem through the leg that is harder to move first, and when taking them off, pull them out from the leg that is easier to move first. Slightly raise and lower the waistband while turning from side to side in your sleep.

The important things when changing clothes are "communication" and "doing what you can yourself."

Proceeding with instructions like, "I'm going to put your arms through now," or "I'm going to turn you slightly to the side," will help them feel more comfortable and make changing easier. Don't forget to respect their privacy by closing the curtains, for example. Asking them to do things they are able to do themselves, such as turning over or buttoning their clothes, will help maintain their physical function and build their confidence.