Why Do People Living with Dementia Take Their Clothes Off?

If you’re caring for someone with dementia, you may find yourself facing moments that are confusing, unexpected, or even uncomfortable—like when your partner begins undressing at unexplained times or in public. It’s not uncommon, and while it can feel alarming or frustrating, there are several possible reasons behind this behavior. Understanding the “why” can help you respond with patience and compassion, while still setting boundaries and finding practical solutions. While this list isn’t exhaustive, we hope it encourages you to consider the "why" behind your partner’s behavior.

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1. Discomfort

Let’s be honest—clothes aren’t always comfortable. Tags, tight waistbands, scratchy or itchy fabrics, or loose clothing that bunches in odd places can all be sources of irritation. A person with dementia may not be able to describe what’s bothering them, so instead, they take the clothes off to relieve the discomfort.

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2. Toileting Needs

Sometimes, removing clothing is a response to physical discomfort related to toileting—such as the urge to urinate, a full bowel, constipation, or a wet brief. A person with dementia may struggle to communicate the problem, or they may not recognize what’s happening in their body until it becomes urgent. Incontinence or the discomfort of being wet, soiled, or backed up may lead them to remove their clothing in an attempt to get relief, even if it’s not in the bathroom or at an appropriate time.

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3. Changes in Body Temperature Regulation

Dementia can interfere with the brain’s ability to regulate temperature. Someone may feel hot even if the room is cool, or may not realize they're cold when they should be. If they feel too warm, removing clothing might be an attempt to self-regulate, even if the timing or setting seems inappropriate. People with dementia are not always fully aware of their surroundings and may believe they’re alone—or simply that their immediate need for relief takes precedence over the situation.

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4. Difficulty with Dressing

People living with dementia often experience trouble with the sequencing and coordination required to get dressed. They may become confused about what step comes next or forget what they were doing entirely. This can lead to them taking clothes back off after already putting them on. They might also struggle with fasteners or find the process too frustrating, leading them to abandon it altogether.

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5. Confusion About What to Wear and When

Dementia can blur the lines of social norms and routines. A person may forget what clothing is considered appropriate for certain situations, occasions, or weather conditions—like pajamas versus daywear, or whether they’re in a private or public space, or whether it's hot, cold, or rainy. If something feels “off,” they might remove clothing in an effort to resolve that discomfort or confusion.

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6. Behavioral and Impulse Changes

Dementia can reduce a person’s ability to inhibit behaviors, meaning they might act on impulses they would have controlled in the past. A person might remove their clothing in response to an unmet need or internal discomfort they can’t express. While the reason may not always be obvious, it’s helpful to approach the behavior with curiosity and consider that it may still be purposeful—even if we don’t fully understand the intent behind it.

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7. Personal Preference

It’s also worth considering that some people simply prefer to be naked—especially in their own space. They might be used to sleeping nude, lounging in minimal clothing, or feeling more relaxed without clothes on. If modesty wasn’t a priority before dementia, it may not be one now either. They may also see others as intruding into their private space and not understand why nudity would be a concern.

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It’s important to remember that people with dementia often aren’t able to clearly explain why they’re doing something—especially when it comes to behaviors related to discomfort, confusion, or frustration. But when it feels appropriate, it’s okay to gently ask them why they’ve removed their clothing. Approach the question with genuine curiosity and without pressure—they may surprise you with an answer, or they may not be able to explain, and that’s okay too. Try to respond without judgment, and look for underlying causes. Offering clothing that’s more comfortable, establishing consistent dressing routines, and creating private spaces when needed can all help reduce this behavior. Above all, respond with empathy and keep their dignity at the center of your approach.