Best Sock Aids for Seniors

How sock aids work

Sock aids are helpful devices for putting on socks – useful for anyone who has difficulty bending over or maintaining their balance. These devices usually have a plastic shell that the user slides the sock onto, and this is attached to two cords which are then used to pull the sock onto the person’s foot.

First, the bottom of the sock is aligned against the plastic shell. Then, the sock is slid over the aid device. It’s usually easier to squeeze the sock aid between the legs in order to push the sock onto it with both hands. Before dropping the aid device to start the process of putting the sock on, ensure the toe of the sock is pulled tight.

When the sock is tight enough, drop the sock aid onto the ground while continuing to hold the rope, since this is going to be the way to pull the sock onto the foot. Afterward, place the foot into the sock until the toes are tight against the sock’s toes.

With everything in place, pull the ropes that slide the sock onto the foot. Slightly moving the foot or the leg can help to smooth this part of the process. Now that the sock is on, the last step is to adjust it until it sits comfortably.

How to choose the best sock aid

Although all sock aids are made with the same purpose, they work differently. It’s therefore essential to have a clear idea of the user’s needs before committing to a brand. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, sciatica, and osteoporosis are just some of the conditions which sock aids are perfect for. These tools are also great for anyone who has difficulty bending over, such as pregnant women and seniors.

The first thing to check is that the sock aid is the right size for the user’s feet and works with their preferred types of socks. Some aid devices are too wide for the user’s feet, while others are too narrow, so verify beforehand the product’s dimensions and sock type compatibility.

The second aspect to consider is the material used to create the sock aid. These devices are usually made of plastic, but it’s important to choose one that is made of a material that is sturdy enough to hold the sock and not break easily with repeated use, but is still flexible enough to offer comfort. The handles should also be soft, made with foam, and slip-resistant – the smoother and easier to hold, the better. When it comes to the cords, you should pick an aid that has a few more inches than are actually needed since it’s always possible to adjust the length if necessary.

Last but not least, go for a product that offers a good warranty. Although not entirely necessary, this gives some peace of mind when committing to the purchase.

If an accident happens when using a sock aid

Sock aids are a great help for seniors with reduced mobility, and they also prevent falls while putting socks on. However, that’s just a small fraction of anyone’s day. When we get older, our balance starts to deteriorate, and falling becomes more frequent, even when the senior doesn’t suffer from a severe condition. In fact, falling itself kills one senior every 19 minutes in the U.S. Due to this, medical alert services can be lifesavers for people who want to age independently without leaving their homes.

While medical alert services at their simplest already help a lot, getting a few extras like a fall detector improves quality of life even further. The detector understands when a fall takes place and automatically connects the device to the monitoring team. The care agent then asks if the wearer is alright, and if there’s no response, sends help right away.

It’s highly recommended to get a medical alert system to ensure the senior’s safety. Accidents happen all the time and having 24/7 help a button away puts everyone’s mind at ease.