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Dressing can suddenly become much more difficult as we get older. We have aches and more limited mobility to consider. The great news is that there are options out there for fashionable and comfortable clothing for seniors.

Adaptive Clothing for Seniors

What Is Adaptive Clothing?

Adaptive clothing is specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by people with limited mobility. Adaptive clothing will have thoughtful modifications that simplify the dressing process. 

This can include Velcro or magnetic closures, larger buttons, and adjustable fastenings to accommodate various levels of dexterity and mobility.

11 Clothing Essentials For Seniors With Limited Mobility

1. Adaptive Bra

Adaptive bras are really important for independence and pain management. When mobility is limited, back clasps and awkwardly placed strap adjustments can be very difficult. 

Springrose has developed an adaptive and stylish bra that offers all of the support that you need. This product was created with the help of over 500 women with limited mobility, so you can be confident that it will be easy to use and very comfortable.

There are also gift cards available to give to loved ones, so they can choose their desired size and color.

2. Easy On Pants

You can buy elasticated waist pants in almost any store. Pants with elastic waistbands eliminate the need for buttons or zippers, and this can make dressing and undressing much more simple if you lack hand dexterity or have limited mobility in your arms or wrists.

There are also pants with strategic, hidden zippers to make dressing and undressing easy. Especially when going to the bathroom!

3. Velcro-Closure Shoes 

Shoes with Velcro straps provide a convenient alternative to traditional laces, allowing those with limited mobility to easily put on and take off their footwear. There are plenty of options available, from sneakers, to shoes, to sandals.

4. Velcro-Opening Shirts

When mobility is an issue, it can be much more difficult to handle smaller fastens like buttons. Shirts and blouses can be made with Velcro fasteners that are secure but also convenient for seniors with limited mobility.

5. Magnetic-Closure Jackets or Shirts

Another option, if you find it tough to use Velcro, might be magnets.

One thing to remember if you are buying clothes for someone else, is that magnetic fastens won’t typically be safe for those with pacemakers.

6. Zippered Bathing Suits

Bathing suits are great for recreational activities, water therapy, and often getting rid of aches in a hot tub. However, they can be difficult to pull on and off with how tight they are. 

Opt for a one piece that has a front zipper to make it easier to put on and take off. 

7. Wide-Leg Pants

Wide-leg pants provide extra room for movement and reduce restrictions when getting dressed. This makes them excellent clothing for seniors with limited mobility as this extra room can prevent slips and falls.

Wide leg pants can also be incredibly comfortable.

8. Slip-On Shoes

Slip-on shoes with stretchy materials or elasticized openings are easy to put on and take off. They can be convenient and comfortable. They are a great option if mobility is limited but someone is quite steady on their feet.

Slip-on shoes should always fit well. If they are too tight they can be hard to put on, and if they are too loose they can be a trip hazard.

9. Adaptive Socks

Socks with non-constricting tops and grip features help seniors with limited hand dexterity in putting on and removing their socks. 

You can also buy aids to make the process even easier.

10. Open-Back Tops

Tops with open-back designs and adjustable fastenings allow for simple dressing while providing coverage and comfort.

The wider opening can make it easier to put on than traditional tops and can help to make movements in the clothes feel less restricted.

11. Front-Closure Cardigans

Simply choosing clothing that has front closures can make a huge difference. This could be swapping jumpers for cardigans, swapping tees for shirts or even swapping traditional bras for front closing alternatives. 

No matter what you choose, it’s important to remember that when mobility is limited it’s okay to trial new ways to dress. The experience can be frustrating and time consuming at first, but with the right changes and a suitable selection of options, it’s possible to regain independence and make dressing more simple.