Occupational Therapist how-to

How to Teach One-Handed Dressing

New techniques restore independence.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

New techniques restore independence. In short: sit; dress; use, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Sit the patient safely.

  2. Dress the weaker arm first.

  3. Use adaptive aids if needed.

  4. Break steps into small parts.

  5. Practice with feedback.

  6. Have the patient repeat independently.

Safety reminders for occupational therapists

  • Guard patients during transfers
  • Follow infection control
  • Check skin with splints
  • Use proper body mechanics

ADLs · IADLs · Fine motor skills · Sensory integration · Adaptive equipment · Splint: see the full occupational therapist glossary.

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