Glove-style dressing aid to help with putting on compression hosiery. Options: four sizes available.
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http://www.steveyoursupport.com
WestCare
Stationsplein 35
1851 LN Heiloo
The Netherlands
stevenwesterbos@westcare.euNo dimensions have been specified for this product
No product specification has been specified.
Everyone wants to be able to choose and wear clothes that are comfortable and to their own personal taste. This can be difficult for you if your mobility, grip, balance or sensations have been altered through a condition, illness or injury.
There are companies which specialise in manufacturing clothes to meet particular needs, and some high street brands are now including clothing designed for people with additional requirements. Some clothes and footwear can be adapted to help. You may find certain types of fabric and styles of clothes or footwear can be useful in overcoming problems. Equipment and techniques for dressing and undressing can also be utilised to enable ease and independence in self-care.
If you find dressing difficult, there are a number of things you can try to remain independent with dressing.
Look for fabrics made from the following:
It is possible to make adaptations to your existing clothes. Listed here are some suggestions on how some difficulties can be overcome by relatively simple adaptations.
There are a range of dressing techniques that can be used depending on what difficulties you have with dressing. For example, there are one-handed dressing techniques for tying shoelaces, putting on a bra, shirt, jacket, sweatshirt, socks and for tying a tie. There are also techniques for dressing if you have limited strength in your hands, limited shoulder movement or paralysis.
These dressing techniques can be demonstrated by an occupational therapist, who can do an assessment with you and show you appropriate dressing techniques to suit your abilities.
You may also be able to get advice on dressing techniques by visiting an Independent Living Centre. There are several of these around the country where you can go for impartial advice.
Dressing aids are relatively simple to use and can assist with a variety of dressing tasks. We recommend that you seek advice from an occupational therapist before buying equipment, or try them out at your local Equipment Demonstration or Independent Living Centre. For some of these items, practice and correct technique is needed to ensure you can use them effectively.
Button hooks
A button hook usually consists of a thick handle and a wire loop. The loop is threaded through the buttonhole, hooked over the button, and the button pulled back through the hole. Button hooks usually need a lot of practice to use effectively, especially if you have the use of one hand only.
Dressing sticks
A dressing stick usually consists of a long wooden or plastic handle, with a hook on one end and sometimes a thimble or smaller hook on the other. You can use a dressing stick to bring clothes around your shoulders, push clothes off your shoulders, pull up zips (using the small hook end), tighten shoelaces, pull up trousers or straps or push off socks.
You can also sew loops onto clothing and then use the dressing stick to help with positioning the garment.
A dressing stick is useful if you have limited shoulder movement, but requires a reasonable grip. Padded sticks are available if you have very delicate skin, which also helps with gripping the stick.
Some people who use a walking stick can become very adept at using their stick as a dressing aid.
The following can help you when putting on underwear:
Reachers or pick-up sticks
Reachers/pick-up sticks are available in various lengths and grip styles, and have a pincer grip at one end. They may be used to pick clothes up from the floor, pull up
underwear or trousers and push down socks, underwear or trousers. Some have a shaped pincer end which doubles as a shoe horn.
You need to be able to span the grip handle and have reasonable grip/squeeze strength in order to use this piece of equipment. You also need good arm control in order to manoeuvre the length of the pick-up stick accurately enough to be useful.
Clip and Pull is canvas strap and clip device is designed to help someone to pull trousers up with use of one hand only.
Pants and trouser clips
This consists of two plastic clips joined with a piece of elastic. One clip is attached to your top, the other to your trousers before you lower trousers to go to the toilet. This helps keep trousers within reach when you stand after using the toilet.
Sleeve aid
This is a split conical tube which fits over the hand and forearm, protecting frail joints or post-op skin when putting on a long sleeve.
Long-handled shoe horn
Long-handled shoe horns can help with putting on and taking off shoes. They can also be used to help push socks off the lower leg.
As many have a hook on the alternative end, they can also be used for reaching items of clothing, such as pants and trousers.
Boot jack
This is a traditional way of getting boots off and can be very useful if bending is difficult. The heel of the boot is held in the jack whilst the foot is pulled up and out.
Zip aids or zip puller
A zip aid is usually a piece of cord or fine chain with a hook on one end and a tab at the other to assist with doing up zips. Large rings or tape can also be attached to a zip tab to help make gripping easier.
Sock, stocking and compression stocking aids
Sock and stocking aids may help if you have difficulty bending forwards to put on socks, stockings, tights and compression stockings. There are a variety of flexible and rigid styles. Most require a degree of grip strength and dexterity. An occupational therapist would be able to advise you on which one is most suitable for you. There are also stocking aids specifically designed for putting on compression stockings.
Flexible stocking/sock aid
The flexible version is cone shaped and made of plastic, fabric-covered plastic or just fabric. It has two tapes/ribbons at the top. It is sometimes called a gutter sock aid.
With the aid held on the knee, the sock is gathered onto the aid which keep the sock open along its whole length. The aid is then lowered onto the floor, whilst holding on to the tapes. The toes of the foot are placed into the open end of the sock and the ribbons pulled to pull the sock up the lower leg. The fabric, or fabric-covered type, are recommended to anyone who has delicate skin.
A double version of this aid can be used for tights. These are rather tricky to manipulate and require a lot of practice especially if there is a high lycra content in the tights. People with poor grip or shoulder function may find pulling the tights up over the hip difficult. Pulling up with hands crossed over the body reduces the amount of shoulder movement required.
Rigid stocking/sock aid
The rigid version consists of a plastic semi-circle which pivots on the end of a long handle. As with the flexible sock aid, the sock is fed onto the aid which keeps it open. The toes of the foot are then placed into the open end of the sock and the aid used to pull the sock up the lower leg.
Sock aid frames
These are rigid wire frames which hold the sock open whilst the foot is placed into the sock. The frames usually has handles at the side which are used to pull the frame and thereby the sock up the leg.
Compression stockings
The sock aid frames are usable with compression stockings. Hand strength is required to load the stocking on to the frame. If you wear the toeless stockings, you can get a stocking slider, which is made from slide sheet fabric which helps to slide the stocking on smoothly past the toes and heel.
There are also some slide sheet fabric aids designed for enclosed toe stockings. Be aware that when using the slide sheet stocking gadget you need to be able to reach down to your feet. These gadgets may help a carer to assist with dressing if the wearer’s skin is delicate.
Skin problems can be caused by conditions such as:
Skin allergy, also called 'contact dermatitis', is one of the most common skin diseases. An allergic reaction is a hypersensitivity disorder of the immune system. Allergy occurs when a person’s immune system reacts to normally harmless substances in the environment.
Numerous chemicals are used in textile production and some of these chemicals can cause allergic reactions. The source of allergy to textiles can be the fabric itself and chemical additives used in processing the fabric. The most frequent allergens are textile dyes which are causes of acute dermatitis with rapid onset.
Some chemicals used in textile manufacture wash out, some remain within the fabric. You are advised to wash new clothes before wearing them and where possible select clothes which are made of undyed, natural fabric.
The National Eczema Society (NES) suggest that many people with eczema find cotton clothing preferable, as it allows the skin to breathe and prevents overheating. Many also find silk, linen or soft acrylic to be comfortable against their skin.
The NES also advise people with eczema to avoid cheaper products which can cause problems as they may have been finished with an irritant chemical called formaldehyde, which can trigger a flare-up in some people. Also to be wary of 100% cotton that can only be washed at low temperatures, as this may have also been coated with a chemical finish.
Lycra is widely used in socks, stockings and tights and may cause problems for some people with sensitive skin. Look for alternatives made with more natural products.
Fabrics that are stretchy and 'give' when you move are often more comfortable than stiffer fabrics, especially if you sit for long periods. The weight of a fabric can also be important to consider, especially if you experience pain when moving or if you have limited strength or endurance. Wearing a few lighter weight garments is likely to be warmer and more comfortable than a heavy coat for example.
It is likely that you will find loose fitting clothing more comfortable if you have skin problems.
Try to avoid creases and folds in fabric as they can increase the risk of skin breakdown, especially if you are sitting for long periods, or if you perspire a lot. Excess perspiration can cause skin irritation.
In warmer weather, looser fitting clothes allow air to circulate near the skin and remove moisture and heat. Rigid or rough seams, large fasteners and pockets which create uneven surfaces should be avoided. Washing labels can be cut out of clothing if they cause irritation.
Certain conditions like diabetes or Raynaud’s can cause circulation problems, especially to the hands, lower legs and feet. It them becomes important to protect your hands and feet from cold and possible damage which you may not feel. Further information on footwear is available from our factsheet on Choosing footwear and dressing
equipment, but some general advice is here.
Consider wearing two pairs of socks, one thick and one thin or socks over stockings. These must fit properly within the shoes - they shouldn't be too loose nor too tight.
Diabetes UK recommend that you avoid socks, stockings or tights with wrinkles or prominent seams. Garters and stockings or socks with elastic tops should also be avoided because they may restrict the circulation. Never wear socks with darned areas or holes.
Mountaineering or walking socks (available from sports shops) are often warmer than traditional socks. Slipper socks have extra grip soles, cover the foot and reach the calf. They are worn instead of slippers and shoes but are not as supportive. They are safer and warmer than ordinary hosiery worn without shoes, but may prove difficult to remove.
Hosiery is available in a wide range of material and in different weights. Man-made fibres feel warmer when they have a brushed or terry finish. The thicker the fibre the warmer it is, particularly when knitted. Wool is a good insulator but needs washing carefully and replaced when the fibres become matted. Silk is also known for its warmth when layered and silk socks are available from outdoor pursuit suppliers.
If you use a wheelchair, you may find that some standard clothes are not practical or comfortable to wear for long periods of time. There are clothes designed for wheelchair users commercially available and it is possible to adapt your preferred clothes if you so choose.
If you have reduced, or no sensation in your lower body, and you are immobile in the chair much of the time, you must be aware of how the clothing you wear affects your skin condition.
Some general guidelines on choosing clothes are:
It is often possible to adapt ready-made clothes from the high street so that they are more comfortable or practical to wear whilst using a wheelchair. You, a friend or family member may be able to make the alterations, or a local dressmaker or dry cleaner may be able to do the alterations for you.
Look at adapting the shape if necessary. Also keep fastenings within reach and use less fiddly designs, e.g. magnetic clasps or buttons.
Jackets
Trousers
There is a growing range of clothing available from specialist suppliers that has been specifically designed to be more practical or comfortable for wheelchair users. There are also items of specialised equipment if you have particular requirements, such as keeping warm.
There is also a range of items designed for wheelchair users such as long waterproof macs and ponchos and zipped sitting bags to keep your legs warm and protected from wet or windy weather.
How you manage toileting is very personal and different for everyone. Most people want to be as independent as possible, minimising the risks of ‘accidents’ at any time.
Whatever your difficulty, you will need clothes that are easiest for you to manage when you want to use the toilet. Consider how you personally use and transfer on and off a toilet.
For example, although a man may usually stand to urinate, if you are unstable, you may find that sitting is a safer, easier option. It also means that you do not need to worry about holding items of clothing whilst using the toilet.
When considering how you use and transfer on/off the toilet, what items of clothing will you need to move or remove? Do you find it easier to pull pants up/down or would you find it easier to have pants which fasten under the crotch? How you choose to manage will depend upon your personal condition and abilities.
You are advised to look at each stage and movement involved in the task of toileting, working out how best you will manage your clothing. Consider both day- and night-time scenarios; many people are sleepy and less stable at night, so may need the simplest of clothing options.
If you experience incontinence and wear pads, you will need clothing which is discrete, which keeps pads in place and allows you to change pads easily when required. If you wear a catheter, please see the section below.
‘Tricks of the trade’ can be tried, although they are not useful for everyone. The following clothing suggestions may help:
Most people do not want it to be obvious that they are wearing a catheter bag. The factors to consider are ease of access and the desire to hide any possible bulging as the bag fills. You also need to be careful that your clothes do not constrict the flow of urine in the drainage tube, perhaps when you sit down.
Catheter bags are commonly secured to the side of the leg at calf height for ease of access, though some people choose to wear them higher up the leg. You can change where you site the bag according to what you want to wear, so long as you have the right catheter accessories.
If you wear your bag attached to your calf, you should look for loose fitting trousers which you can easily pull up and out of the way when you need to attend to the bag.
If you are a wheelchair user, you may also need to consider wearing longer trousers, so that they do not expose the bag when you are seated. If you prefer, trousers can be adapted with a zip fastener or hook and loop Velcro-type fastener inserted into the lower half of the side seam.
If you choose to wear your bag above the knee, as a man you can open your trousers at the top, reach down inside your trousers to pull the bag up and out to empty it. As a woman, you can wear skirts and dresses long enough to hide the bag.
It may be necessary to manage your stoma several times a day. You may choose to wear non-specialist clothing which is better suited to your personal needs, such as clothing that is looser around the level of your stoma, or you can explore specially designed clothing for stoma wearers.
People who are new to stoma wearing may be a little self-conscious. You might like to try wearing some bright patterned tops which distract the onlooker from your abdomen.
Front fastening clothes will make stoma care easier and clothes with room for movement and room for a slightly fuller stoma bag might be comfier. Very tight jeans might be uncomfortable.
The Colostomy Association has some links to specialist clothing providers on their website.
It is important for you to fully understand your condition and its implications for you and possibly your carer. The more information you hold about your personal circumstances and what works for you, the more confident you will be in seeking out or asking for suitable clothing and adapting them if necessary.
Similarly, if you have a condition which limits your physical ability to get dressed and undressed, knowing your abilities and strengths and gaining some ‘tricks of the trade’ can make the tasks easier, perhaps with the help of some simple equipment.
An occupational therapist can assess your needs and help you to find a way to manage and overcome any clothing or dressing difficulties you may be experiencing.
Clothing is not usually supplied by statutory services. However, if the particular clothes you require are costly, you may want to apply for alternative charitable funding. Speak to an appropriate professional first to clarify what you need, as most applications require the support of a qualified health or medical professional.
There are a number of charities who offer grants for adults and children, more information on these can be found below.
If you have a child with special needs who is expected to wear school uniform, find out how rigid the requirements are. If there is a particular style, you may need to adapt the clothes to make them easier to put on/take off. If the uniform styles can vary, certain shops have easy-to-wear basic items.
Some local education authorities give help with the cost of school clothing for pupils in maintained schools, colleges for further education and sixth form colleges. This can include uniform and non-uniform clothes, shoes and sports kit. In some schools and colleges, help may be available from the governing body or parents’ association. The availability of grant support varies across the country. You are advised to contact your local education authority or Citizens Advice bureau.
If you are terminally ill, or chronically sick or disabled, you will be eligible for VAT Relief on the clothes that you buy or which are bought for you. Your illness or condition can be either physical or mental, but must be considered as either terminal or chronic by your doctor. It would include conditions such as as Alzheimer’s, diabetes and arthritis.
A frail, older person who is otherwise able-bodied, or any person who is only temporarily disabled, would not qualify.
Children
Before you seek charitable funding (or buy) equipment for your child, we would advise you to seek specialist advice. This will help you plan for both immediate and long term needs, will increase awareness of the alternatives on the market, and to check whether the equipment you need can be provided by the statutory services (if this hasn't already been investigated).
The Directory for Social Change (DSC)
The DSC is an organisation which aims to support charities. They have an service which charities or other bodies can subscribe to find and access grant monies.
Disability Grants
Disability Grants offers help in finding grants.
Family Fund
Family Fund provides grants for families raising disabled or seriously ill children and young people aged 0-18. They provide grants for a wide range of items, including clothing.
Margaret’s
Grants specifically for women. Applications must be made through a professional.
Masis
Grants and financial support advice.
Turn 2 Us
A national charity that helps people in financial hardship gain access to welfare benefits, charitable grants and support services