3 Essential Dressing Aids that is OT approved (That Simplify Your Life)

As occupational therapists, we often witness how challenging it can be to dress oneself when mobility is limited. Fortunately, a few handy tools can significantly ease this task. If you (or someone you know) needs some assistance with putting on socks, shoes, and pants without the hassle, these three dressing aids are lifesavers!

1. Sock Aide – Because Slipping on Socks Shouldn’t Be a Battle

Have you ever struggled to put on socks without the ability to bend? It can be quite frustrating. A sock aide is a fantastic tool that allows you to slip on socks easily, all without the awkward contortions. Keep in mind there are 2 types of sock aides, a hard plastic one and a softer one.

 How it works:
- Position your sock over the end of the sock aide. (This is the trickiest part).
- Place it on the ground and insert your foot.
- Pull the straps, and voilà—your sock is on!

Ideal for:
- Post-surgery recovery (think hip replacements)
- Conditions like arthritis, back pain, or stiff joints
- Anyone who simply prefers not to bend down (we totally understand!)

2. Reacher – The Convenient Tool to Grab Items (And We Totally Endorse This)

A reacher acts like an extension of your arm that never tires out. While it’s excellent for
dressing, it also helps you grab snacks from higher shelves—quite a bonus!

Dressing benefits include:
- Raising pants or underwear without needing to bend
- Collecting socks and shoes from the floor easily
- Hooking onto clothing to assist with dressing
- Some reachers have a magnet at the end to pick up paper clips or any other small
metal objects.

Bonus: This tool can also help in picking up dropped keys, retrieving the remote or cell phone, or getting that pesky sock that always slips behind the dresser.

3. Long-Handled Shoe Horn – Because Putting on Shoes Shouldn’t Be Hard

Trying to force your foot into a shoe while balancing on one leg or trying to jam your heel into the back of the shoe can lead to mishaps. A long-handled shoe horn allows you to slide your foot in smoothly without damaging the shoe or risking a fall.

Reasons to have one:
- No bending or awkward twisting needed
- Protects your shoes from damage (think of the back collar of the shoe)
- Makes slipping on footwear much easier

Pro tip: Opt for a metal shoe horn, as plastic ones often break at the most inconvenient times.

And maybe order 2 different sizes, one for standing and one for sitting.

In Conclusion: Independence Equals Confidence

While these three tools are simple, they significantly enhance daily independence. If getting dressed is becoming a struggle, consider adding one (or all three) to your routine and make life a bit smoother!

Do you have a preferred dressing tool or a creative way you use your tools? We’d love to hear
from you!