Multiple medical conditions and the side effects of ageing can impact our ability to dress ourselves. For example, even slight declines in gross motor skills and balance can make it difficult for a person to walk upright without stumbling. Undiagnosed conditions could also be affecting fine motor skills, causing trouble fastening buttons or zippers on clothing. In addition, people may not remember if they are in the process of getting dressed or undressed, or they are simply uncomfortable in their clothing.
In some instances, Depression combined with other illnesses such as diabetes can inhibit both mental faculties and physical abilities necessary for maintaining proper bodily functions, including self-care routines such as bathing and dressing oneself.
One solution to help the process of daily dressing is a dignity suit or onesie: a non-restrictive, comfortable and functional garment.
These specialist suits are designed to look like regular clothing. The attached top and bottoms of daytime Dignity Suits resemble a non-adaptive outfit. Nighttime Dignity Suits look and feel like a one-piece pyjama set, providing comfort to the wearer.
Generally, the garment has a back zip closure that prevents undressing and allows people to wander freely yet maintain their dignity - whilst remaining dressed. It also ensures incontinence aids stay in situ.
The suits are ideal for nursing home residents with special care needs and people with disabilities, specifically supportive for people with Autism, Dementia, Alzheimer’s, or cognitive impairment who wander.
The all-in-one suits are also helpful for staff in aged care facilities, hospitals and home nursing to reduce the assisted dressing time and to make it safer, reducing the risk of injury to the wearer.
The All-in-one Dignity Suit and Onesies could be appropriate for:
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People with Autism
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Sensory Processing Disorder
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Asperger Syndrome
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ADD
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ADHD
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Down Syndrome
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Rett Syndrome
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Anxiety
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Alzheimer's Disease
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Arthritis
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Cancer
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Dementia
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Diabetes
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Disability
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Down Syndrome
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MND (Motor Neurone Disease)
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MS (Multiple Sclerosis)
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Parkinson's
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Polio
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Shoulder stiffness
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Stroke
Caring Clothing offers a range of Dignity Suits suitable for night or day wear. The garments are ideal for people who wander and disrobe. Also known as onesie, all-in-one dignity suit, anti strip jumpsuits and PJ’s (Pyjamas), the garments can be worn comfortably with incontinence aids to prevent accidents and maximise the wearer’s comfort.
The suits are machine washable and available in a variety of styles and materials. Correct sizing is vital - choosing the right size will ensure that both wearers and their caregiver are comfortable with the garment’s functionality. To determine this, measure height, chest/bust measurement and waist size - then use our handy Suit Sizing Guide for best results.
Click the links below to see the Caring Clothing Range:Women’s range of Dignity Suits
Available in sizes XS - 3XL
For further reading about possible conditions leading to undressing behaviour, please visit:
Dementia Australia
VeryWell Health - Autism and Family Life
AUSMED - Dressing a Patient with Dementia
Many organisations and medical associations can offer more specific advice to friends and family to support their loved ones.
The information we have provided is general and does not take into account individual needs. Please check with your General Practitioner (GP) or Specialist Medical Provider for more guidance.