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Lanfine Service NHS Lothian | Our Services

I’m struggling to keep my balance when standing to pull up garments/get dressed

  • Consider dressing on the bed to reduce risk of falls. Elevating the pillow end of the bed may be helpful if completing this task yourself, or placing additional pillows at your back if you don’t have an adjustamatic bed
  • Consider positioning a chair/wheelchair in front of kitchen counter, chest of drawers or grab rail if you have one, to provide a secure support to lean on whilst standing to pull up garments. Place one hand on support for balance whilst other hand adjusts garments.  Alternatively use both hands to support your balance whilst a carer or family helps  you to pull up garments.
  • Sit when dressing (especially when placing items over your head or feet) to reduce your risk of falls
  • Loose/elasticated clothing will be easier to get on/off than tight fitting clothes with lots of fastenings
  • For women: wearing a skirt may be easier to adjust when toileting than trousers (skirt can be put on/taken off over the head, rather than feet first if easier)
  • Avoid changing your clothes any more than necessary to conserve your energy and reduce your risk of falls.