There are a huge number of aids that (should) facilitate dressing and undressing in people with a physical disability. Based on our expertise we're happy to list the most useful tools for you.
1. Dressing stick
Dressing sticks are very handy tools due to their multifunctional hook. This allows you to easily put on or take off clothes when you have limited mobility of the shoulders. You can also use the dressing stick to bring materials closer such as shoes on the floor or items of clothing hanging on coat racks that are difficult to reach.
2. Button hook
A button hook is primarily intended for people with fine motor problems. The handle is thickened for a better grip. A loop is pushed over the knot, then you pull and at the same time you make a rotational movement.
3. Pulling aid for zipper or zipper ring
A pulling aid for the zipper consists of a ring with an eye.
By attaching a pulling aid to the zipper, people who lack the fine motor skills to use the small tab of a zipper can still open and close the zipper.
4. Clip tie
A clip tie is a very simple but useful tool for people with fine motor problems or reduced strength. With the help of the clip you can easily attach the tie to your shirt without having to tie it.
5. Slip lift
The slip lift is intended for anyone with difficulty reaching their feet for some reason: people with hip or back problems, half-sided paralysis, balance problems, osteoarthritis, ... There is now a foldable version that makes it easier to take with you or stow away when you're on the go.
6. Zubits
The Zubits are a very handy invention for people who can't tie the shoes independently. With one hand you can click the magnets together, so your shoe is closed. You can release the magnets again without moving your hands forward.
7. Doff n 'Donner stocking aid
Doff n 'Donner is a very handy on-and-off aid for compression stockings. It requires some practice, but once you get used to it, it's very easy to use and extremely comfortable. The stockings are ready to put on again right away after you've taken them off.
8. Magnetic clasp for jewellery
It's almost impossible to put on or take off jewellery by yourself with one hand or with fine-motor problems. You can solve this problem by attaching a magnetic clasp to bracelets or necklaces.
9. Helping hand
grabs or extended arms are used by people who have difficulty reaching the ground or a certain height such as wheelchair users. They are meant for picking things up, removing items from the cupboard, closing curtains, etc.
10. Adaptive clothing
It goes without saying that many problems can be solved by using adaptive clothing, which often means that other aids are no longer needed.
People who have difficulty closing a button or zipper can use trousers with an elastic waistband or jackets with magnetic zipper or clothing with magnetic buttons such as a cardigan or shirt.
If you are a wheelchair user, you'll feel much more comfortable with specially designed wheelchair trousers which have a lot more fabric on the back so that the back is well covered, that have no seams on the seat to avoid pressure sores, longer legs, etc.
An alternative to shoes with laces are customised shoes with zips, such as Friendly Shoes. Thanks to the zips, you can easily put on and take off the shoe.
This is just a sample of the range of aids for dressing or undressing. If you have specific questions about this subject, please feel free to contact us. We'll gladly look for a solution.
Sofie en Jessie