The skin may be more sensitive to rough textures and heavy fabrics, as well as temperature changes. Clothing helps satisfy the need for social acceptance, belonging and group identity, regardless of age. How a person dresses is a major factor in helping them fit in to a new situation. Elderly people often move to a new home, perhaps even a new community. Many lose a spouse or friends and must develop new friendships and relationships.
Appearance sends an important message to others as they make new friends.
Depressed people often ignore their appearances, but clothing can be used to combat this depression. Clothing selection may be a good place to start to improve an elderly person's outlook and encourage social interaction. Functional needs also should be considered in clothing selection. If the elderly have clothing that makes dressing easier, they will be more confident in their own abilities and independence, which can help in their other daily tasks. Here are some suggestions as you help elderly select clothing.