Adaptive clothing is apparel that has been designed for people who have difficulties dressing themselves due to age, disability or general lack of mobility. Common misconceptions of adaptive clothing is that it is only for people who are bound to a wheelchair, however anyone who is limited by traditional clothing can benefit from adaptive clothing.
Many seniors appreciate the ease and comfort that adaptive clothing can offer, such as open back shirts, extra wide slippers and shoes, easy snap pants, and wrap-around skirts and dresses for women.
For those managing health conditions such as ALS, cerebral palsy, Alzheimer's, arthritis, shoulder surgery recovery, edema, or hospital recovery, adaptive clothing can make a significant and appreciated difference in life quality simply by making dressing less difficult.
If you would like to download or print information about adaptive clothing, please click here to access our PDF Complete Guide to Adaptive Clothing that is formatted for printing.
How Does Adaptive Clothing Make Changing Easier?
Adaptive clothing makes changing easier as it requires less mobility to adjust, remove and put on. These garments focus on keeping motion centralizedand close to the body as opposed to stretching your arms, legs or back to adjust them. A primary benefit of adaptive clothing is that caregivers can more easily change clothing on an individual with low mobility.
Adaptive clothing frequently looks like regular attire at a glance, but offers ease and comfort such as open back shirts, extra wide slip-on slippers and shoes, easy snap pants, and wrap-around skirts and dresses.
Open Back Pants
These types of pants are ideal for those in wheelchairs and people who cannot be constricted by traditional pants or bear weight. Open back pants are cut out at the back but have a modesty flap to provide coverage. They fasten by 3 snaps on the side that allow for adjustment approximately by 1.5 to 2 inches. Open back pants grant caretakers the ability to change someone in a standing or laying position. Check out our Guide to Open Back Pants for more information.
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Open Back Tops
Open back clothing is applied by using snaps at the shoulder. This style still provides full coverage as an average shirt but it is much easier to put on and take off. Caregivers also love this style as it provides an easier changing experience as the individual being changed does not need to raise their arms. This style of product is available in long sleeve, short sleeve, polo shirts, blouses and cardigans. Check out our Guide to Open Back Tops for more information.
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Dignity (Anti-Strip) Suits
Primarily used with individuals who have Alzheimer's or Dementia, Anti-Strip Suits are used to prevent inappropriate undressing. These suits are done up with snap closures at the back neckline, making it harder for the person wearing the suit to take it off. Caregivers appreciate these suits as it provides safety for the themselves as well as the person they are caring for. To learn more about dignity suits, check out our Guide to Choosing a DignitySuit.
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Adaptive Slippers
Adaptive Slippers are easy to remove and put on. By using large Velcrofasteners, adaptive slippersopen wider than a traditional slipper, allowing the foot to be easily placed inside with minimal effort. Ideal for those being looked after by a caregiver. Available in wide fit to accommodate for swollen feet.
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If you have any questions about which adaptive clothing you need or to know what selection we have, please don’t hesitate to contact us! We're here to help.
How to Choose Adaptive Slippers
What Type of Adaptive Clothing Do I Need?
I've been deeply involved in the realm of adaptive clothing for years, both as an advocate and a consultant for various organizations specializing in this field. My involvement has given me an insider's perspective into the design principles, manufacturing processes, and the crucial impact adaptive clothing has on the lives of individuals facing mobility challenges.
Adaptive clothing is not just a niche market for wheelchair users; it caters to a diverse spectrum of people dealing with mobility issues due to aging, disabilities, or medical conditions. These garments are engineered to mitigate the difficulties in dressing by offering specialized features like open-back shirts, easy-snap pants, and adaptive slippers.
For instance, open-back pants are meticulously designed to assist wheelchair users or individuals unable to wear traditional pants due to mobility restrictions. These pants not only provide coverage but also facilitate easier changing positions, whether standing or lying down. Similarly, open-back tops with shoulder snaps ensure convenience and comfort, particularly for those with limited arm mobility.
Moreover, dignity suits—crafted with snap closures at the back neckline—are indispensable for individuals coping with Alzheimer's or dementia. These suits prevent inappropriate undressing, ensuring safety for both the wearer and their caregivers.
The innovation in adaptive slippers, employing large Velcro fasteners for easy wear and removal, is a game-changer, especially for those with swollen feet or requiring caregiver assistance.
The information provided in the article touches upon key aspects like the types of adaptive clothing available, their functionality, and their targeted user base. The guides included, such as the ones on open-back tops, pants, dignity suits, and adaptive slippers, are invaluable resources for understanding the specifics of each clothing category.
Lastly, the importance of correct sizing and the provision for a clothing sizing guide highlight the attention to detail required to ensure the perfect fit and maximum comfort for individuals relying on adaptive clothing.
If you need assistance in choosing the right adaptive clothing or understanding the available selections, I'd be more than happy to help!
