Dressed for Success: The Best Senior Adaptive Clothing

What were your thoughts when choosing the outfit you put on this morning? Style? Comfort? A particular memory attached to a piece of clothing? The clothes we wear are a fundamental part of our identity, and the simple act of choosing what to wear and being able to put it on is essential to our independence. When the effects of growing older or a health condition like arthritis make it challenging to self-dress, knowing how to choose the best senior adaptive clothing is an excellent way to maintain self-sufficiency.

What Is the Best Senior Adaptive Clothing to Choose?

There are several key features to consider in adaptive clothing, including:

How it fastens: Zippers and buttons are harder to manage than Velcro, snaps, or magnets.

How it’s put on: Raising the arms and pulling a snug sweater over the head is a lot more difficult than slipping on a cardigan. For a person in a wheelchair or with other mobility issues, clothing that opens in the back or on the side is an even better choice.

How restrictive it is: Clothing with adjustable straps or an elastic waistband is less restrictive and also works well for someone with fluctuating weight or issues with swelling.

How it aids in preventing falls: Do not forget about footwear! Adaptive shoes are usually slip-resistant and will accommodate swelling or a brace.

How easy it is to wash: Choose machine wash/tumble dry clothing made from fabric that resists wrinkles and will be most convenient and comfortable.

Will It Fit?

Purchasing items that fit well and are comfortable isn’t always easy, especially if you are ordering clothing online. Here’s how to achieve the very best results:

Measure first. Get an accurate measurement of the person’s waist, hips, inseam, and for women, bust.

Check the charts. Many online adaptive clothing sites will provide size charts. In addition to the person’s body measurements, pay attention to whether the garments will have a slim or relaxed fit.

Try it on. Whenever possible, the most reliable way to ensure a good fit is by trying the items on and having the person move about to check for mobility, flexibility, and comfort. If a piece of clothing misses the mark in any of these areas, return it or talk to a seamstress or tailor about altering it.

Keep in mind too that while adaptive clothing’s purpose is to make getting dressed safer and easier, that does not mean you have to settle for frumpy frocks! Sit down together and look at patterns, colors, and styles online so the individual can select the items they like best.

Contact Responsive Home Care for further help with your adaptive clothing needs. We’re here to offer tried and true tips, take older adults shopping, provide support with getting dressed, and much more. Serving Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Lighthouse Point, and nearby areas, you can reach us any time at (954) 486-6440 to find out more.