How to Respond When a Person with Dementia Takes Their Clothes Off

In a previous blog, we explored why people with dementia might remove their clothes—from discomfort or confusion to changes in temperature or personal preference. While understanding the why is a helpful first step, the next question becomes: What can you actually do when this happens?

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Here are some practical and respectful ways to address undressing behaviors, while helping your partner with dementia feel safe, comfortable, and dignified.

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1. Rule Out Physical Discomfort First

Check for anything that could be bothering them. Are the clothes too tight, too loose, or scratchy? Are there tags, seams, or waistbands causing irritation? Are they too hot or cold? Try switching to softer fabrics, looser fits, tagless clothing, or adaptive clothing options that look like typical clothes but are easier to wear and harder to remove unintentionally.

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2. Offer More Comfortable or Familiar Clothing

‍If your partner has favorite items of clothing they consistently wear without issue, consider buying similar items or even duplicates. People with dementia often do best with consistency, and familiar clothing can be reassuring. Avoid complicated fasteners, zippers, or buttons when possible.

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3. Use Adaptive Clothing When Needed

‍In some cases, adaptive clothing designed to prevent disrobing—such as onesies—may be helpful, especially if safety or hygiene becomes an issue. These clothes often look like regular garments but fasten or zip in the back or are more difficult to remove independently. They can be useful at night or in public settings. However, these garments should never be used as a form of restraint. Individuals wearing this type of adaptive clothing should be toileted regularly to help prevent unmet needs, skin breakdown, or other complications.

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4. Establish a Consistent Dressing Routine

‍Routines help reduce confusion. Try dressing at the same time each day and in the same order (e.g., undergarments, then pants, then shirt). Give verbal cues and guide the steps one at a time if needed. Offering just two outfit options can also prevent decision fatigue.

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5. Consider Toileting Needs

‍Look for patterns such as clothing removal before or after meals, in the morning, or after periods of rest. Consider whether underlying toileting needs may be playing a role. Keeping a consistent toileting schedule and watching for signs of constipation or urinary tract infections can help reduce these incidents.

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6. Redirect Rather Than Scold

‍If your partner begins to undress in a public or inappropriate setting, avoid scolding or drawing attention to it in a way that might cause embarrassment. Instead, calmly redirect their attention or offer them privacy. If available, provide a blanket, robe, or jacket for coverage. Offer them a more comfortable set of clothing. You can also invite them to join you in another activity or guide them to the bathroom, as undressing can sometimes be a sign they need to go. Staying calm and matter-of-fact can help prevent feelings of shame or agitation.

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7. Create Safe, Private Spaces

‍If your partner is more comfortable undressed, consider allowing nudity in clearly defined private spaces, like their bedroom or bathroom. You can gently encourage them to cover up in shared areas, while still honoring their comfort at home.

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8. Talk to the Healthcare Team‍

If undressing becomes frequent or difficult to manage despite your efforts, speak with your partner’s doctor or care team. There may be an underlying medical reason—like a urinary tract infection, constipation, or side effects from medication—contributing to the behavior.

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It’s not necessarily about stopping the behavior completely—it’s about understanding the need behind it and finding ways to meet that need safely and respectfully. Each person with dementia is different, and what works for one may not work for another. What works one time, may not work the next. Trial and error, combined with empathy and observation, can go a long way.

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Remember: their actions aren’t personal. They’re doing the best they can—and so are you.