5 simple ways to make dressing easier after stroke
Dressing can feel frustrating when strength, coordination, sensation, vision, or attention changes after a stroke. These OT-informed strategies focus on safety, efficiency, and small wins that add up—starting today.
Quick note: This post is for general education and doesn’t replace individualized medical advice. If you have new or worsening symptoms, pain, or safety concerns (like frequent falls), contact your medical team.
1) Create a “dressing station” (setup is half the battle)
A consistent setup reduces decision fatigue and makes dressing safer. Choose a sturdy chair with armrests, good lighting, and everything within reach.
- Use a chair: Sitting reduces fall risk and helps with balance.
- Keep items in one spot: A small bin/basket for socks, underwear, and adaptive tools.
- Improve visibility: Bright light + high-contrast clothing can help if vision is affected.
2) Dress the affected side first (and undress it last)
This classic OT rule matters because it reduces pulling and awkward positioning. When putting on a shirt or jacket, start with the weaker/affected arm. When taking clothing off, remove the stronger arm first and the affected arm last.
Try this with a shirt
- Lay the shirt on your lap with the inside facing you.
- Thread the affected arm into the sleeve first.
- Pull the shirt up to the elbow/shoulder on the affected side before threading the stronger arm.
- Finish by pulling it over your head (if needed) and adjusting the hem.
3) Use “one-handed” clothing hacks to reduce frustration
If one arm/hand is weaker or has reduced coordination, choose strategies that keep clothing stable while you work. The goal is less wrestling, more control.
Helpful hacks
- Anchor clothing: Sit on the edge of the garment (or trap it under your thigh) to keep it from sliding.
- Use friction: Dress on a grippy surface (a towel on your lap) so fabric doesn’t move as much.
- Choose looser sleeves: Wider openings are easier when tone/spasticity is present.
- Pick pull-ons over buttons: Or use magnetic/Velcro closures when available.
4) Try simple adaptive tools (you don’t need a whole kit)
You may only need one or two items to make a big difference. An OT can recommend the best fit, but these are common starting points.
- Dressing stick: Helps pull pants up, guide sleeves, and manage reach safely.
- Sock aid: Great if bending is difficult or balance is limited.
- Long-handled shoehorn: Reduces strain and makes shoes easier to don.
- Button hook / zipper pull: Useful when fine motor control is the main barrier.
5) Use a simple sequence + energy-saving plan
Fatigue is real after stroke. Dressing often goes better when you keep the routine the same and reduce extra steps.
A simple dressing order
- Lay out clothes (top → bottom → socks/shoes).
- Sit to dress whenever possible.
- Start with the affected side for tops/jackets.
- Take breaks on purpose: pause after your top, then continue.
- Use “good enough”—perfection isn’t the goal; safety and independence are.
When to ask for OT help
Consider working with an OT if dressing is taking a long time, causing falls or near-falls, triggering shoulder pain, or if you’re seeing increasing tone/spasticity that makes sleeves and pants harder.
We can assess your dressing routine, recommend the right tools, and build a plan that fits your goals.
Safety note: If you have shoulder pain, avoid aggressive pulling on the affected arm. Support the arm and move gently—ask your OT for technique adjustments.