Consider
By Wendy Aruga-Goto
physical limitations in
choosing garmentsHawaii's population is aging rapidly. Thirteen percent of local residents are now age 65 or above, up from just 5 percent in 1960. Moreover, between 1990 and 1997, the number of Hawaii residents age 75 and older has increased 47 percent. As a result, more and more people are finding the physical limitations that often accompany advancing years result in the need for clothing items with features that make them easy to put on and take off. Fingers affected by arthritis, for example, may be unable to handle buttons or grip a zipper, while other joint limitations can affect the ability to put garments on overhead.
Elderly people who require assistance with dressing may need clothing that is especially easy for others to manipulate.
Several features can make dressing easier for people with limited finger dexterity. When considering garments with buttons, select those with large buttons rather than small ones. Choose skirts and pants with an elastic waistband instead of a zipper.
Alternatively, many people find fastening garments is easier when they replace buttons and zippers with Velcro closures. Step-in shoes or shoes with Velcro closures are easier to manage than shoes with laces.
If arm movement is limited, make sure the garment fastens in front so you don't have to reach around behind you to secure it. Women should select pullover dresses or muumuus and tops with large neck openings. Also, choose pants with wide legs.
If you are responsible for dressing someone who has limited mobility, select garments that fasten in the back so the only arm movement required is the extension of both arms straight out in front. Pants made with full side zippers are most convenient when dressing people who are unable to stand.
Instead of adjusting clothing, another approach is to use adaptive products to make dressing easier. For example, special pulling devices allow people to manipulate zippers or buttons without stressing sore fingers.Other useful items include sock pulls and extended-handled shoe horns and reachers.
These gadgets are often available at medical supply stores, or they can be ordered through an occupational therapist.
Wendy Aruga-Goto is a registered occupational therapist
at the Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific, Aiea satellite clinic.
For more information, call 531-3511.
The general information offered
here is not intended to replace individual medical advice.
