Best Reviews logo
Best Reviews AI Comparator
Compare Medical alert systems
Best Reviews may receive compensation for its content through paid collaborations. See how we sustain our work & review products.
Best Sock Aids for Seniors

Best Sock Aids for Seniors

By Daniel C. Daniel C. Verified by Inês P. Inês P. Last updated: July 12, 2024 (0)
Table of contents

There are many things we take for granted as we go through our daily lives. One of them is the simple task of putting on our socks. But due to several types of medical conditions, getting older, or being pregnant, bending over to reach our feet isn’t always easy. This is where sock aids come in handy. They are a flexible material attached to two long handles where the sock slides over the device and can then be pulled by the cords onto the user’s foot. Since more than one-quarter of Americans have arthritis, the possibility of getting a sock assistance device is wonderful news. This is especially true since sock aids come at reasonable prices and with extensive warranty periods so customers can commit to a stress-free purchase.

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.

Recommended sock aids

RMS Deluxe sock aid

Royal Medical Solutions Deluxe Sock Aid is highly loved by its customers, having a rating of four and a half stars on Amazon from more than 6,000 users. The shell is made of flexible contoured plastic, which makes it soft but strong enough to assist even people with weak hands. Moreover, since the handles are made of slip-resistant foam pads, this aid is comfortable and ergonomic to use. Overall, RMS Deluxe is 38” long, but the cords can be adjusted to the desired length by tying knots to ensure that the user doesn’t need to bend to put their socks on. What’s more, the device is affordable – $9.95 per unit – and the company offers a lifetime warranty.

Vive sock aid

Vive Sock Aid is a cost-effective and easy-to-use solution with many happy customers. The shell is latex-free, which makes it soft, comfortable, and flexible to use, and the cuff is slip-resistant to ensure socks and hosiery stay securely in place while putting them on. Furthermore, since the shell is not too wide, it’s perfect for compression socks. The soft handles are made of foam, and they’re constructed to prevent slipping. The sock assistant cords are 33” long but can be adjusted through the button adjusters. It costs $9.99 on Amazon, and the company offers a 60-day warranty.

Allstar Innovations sock slider

Allstar Innovations Sock Slider is a little different compared to the others on this list since it doesn’t rely on handles, and it’s possible to detach part of the contraption to use it as a shoehorn or a sock remover. The aid device consists of a sock slider handle, cradle, and a rubber grip button, which can be folded up to make the product compact and storable almost everywhere – perfect for traveling. The product works for all types of socks, including compression, dress, athletic, and casual. It costs $14 on Amazon where it has a rating of three and a half stars.

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.

Why you can trust us

The Best Reviews team researches and tests all products first-hand. We've been reviewing products and services since 2012 and are proud to only publish human-created content.

User Feedback

 Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


Best Reviews

Best Reviews may receive compensation for its content through paid collaborations and/or affiliate links. Learn more about how we sustain our work and review products.

©2012-2024 Best Reviews, a clovio brand – All rights reserved
Privacy policy · Cookie policy · Terms of use · Partnerships · Contact us