Chrissy LinFor those with disabilities that affect or limit mobility, “simple” tasks such as putting on a shirt or shoes can prove challenging. Few people want to rely on others to help them get dressed; fortunately, dressing sticks can help many disabled people maintain their independence – and their dignity. The following offers information about dressing sticks and how to use them, plus lists ten dressing sticks you might want to consider for yourself or a loved one.
What is a Dressing Stick?
You may be wondering what is a dressing stick? A dressing stick is a piece of adaptive equipment designed to make putting on and taking off clothes easier. It reduces the need for bending, twisting, and reaching, particularly helpful for arthritis, Parkinson’s, and dementia. Aside from that, it also provides practical assistance for post-surgery recovery, the elderly, or those with limited mobility.
How to Use a Dressing Stick
Using a dressing stick can be a bit tricky at first because there is a slight learning curve. However, it only takes a few times before most individuals learn how to use the stick effectively.
Vive Health does an excellent job at teaching individuals how to use a dressing stick effectively:
Best Dressing Sticks for Disabled People
1. Blue Jay Dressing Stick
The Blue Jay Dressing Stick is a dual 24-inch long S-shaped hook and shoehorn style aid that relieves straining and stretching while changing. The unique S-shape design minimizes the need to bend and helps put on pants, shirts, shoes, and socks. On the other end of the stick, the shoehorn helps with being able to slide on your shoe’s heel easily.
Aside from that, it also includes a nonabrasive plastic material. This way, it won’t be irritating when using it to pull on clothes. Lastly, the handle is covered with soft foam, reducing hand fatigue while using and is comfortable.
Key Features
- It has an ergonomic design
- Features an extra-long handle
- Includes an S-shaped design
2. ArcMate DressEZ
ArcMate DressEZ is a 2-in-1 dressing aid with a shoehorn installed. The S-hook is suitable for pulling on clothes or picking them up from the floor. On the other side, the shoehorn can be used to slip on your shoes and socks easily.
On one side, there is a non-slip cap that ensures the clothes will stay snug when needed. Additionally, the other side is smooth and allows you to put on clothes with ease. Lastly, the extended reach and foam handle ensure that it’s comfortable to use and that you’ll have enough length.
Key Features
- 2-in-1 design
- Comfortable foam on the handle
- Extended handle to pick up items
- Lightweight design
3. MEDca Adjustable Dressing Stick
The MEDca Adjustable Dressing Stick is a dressing stick for hip replacement, spinal and knee surgery. Unlike other dressing sticks, the MEDca is fully adjustable in length, ensuring it will always be the correct size. For safety, they’ve also included a locking mechanism to ensure the pole stays in place.
Aside from a metal hook, a zipper pull feature can assist with zipping boots, pants, and jackets. The MEDca is also perfect for on-the-go use as it can fold up to 19-inches and is lightweight and durable. Each hook has been reinforced to ensure the ends don’t bend and that the stick will last a lifetime.
Key Features
- Durable metal construction
- Portable and compact design
- Both clothing and zipper puller/pusher
- Adjustable length
4. Juvo Dressing Stick + Shoehorn
The Juvo Dressing Stick and Shoehorn is suitable for individuals with a wheelchair, recovering from surgery, or limited mobility. The Juvo includes a long handle with a hooked end that extends 25-inches long. It also features pulling assistance, ideal for putting on shirts, pants, blouses, sweaters, and jackets.
The unique curved head features tapered ends and makes pulling and pushing motions smooth. This allows the individual to put it on without discomfort.
Key Features
- Push and pull the curved head
- 25-inch extended reach
- 2-in-1 design with shoehorn and hook
5. RMS Deluxe Long Dressing Stick
The RMS Deluxe Long Dressing Stick is highly recommended by health professionals and therapists for individuals with limited mobility. This particular dressing stick has an extra-large vinyl coating with a push and pulls hook. The hook includes a unique bend to help make putting on pants, shirts, and shoes hassle-free.
On the opposite end, the C-shaped hook is designed for zipping jackets, pants, and shoes. It can also assist with lacing shoelaces. Lastly, the RMS Deluxe is lightweight and made from sturdy hardwood dowel with an extended 28-inch length.
Key Features
- 2-in-1 C-shape and S-shaped hook
- Extended 28-inch reach
- Durable but smooth hardwood dowel
6. RMS Extra Long Dressing Stick + Shoehorn
The RMS Extra Long Dressing Stick and Shoehorn are great for the elderly, those with limited mobility, pregnant women, or people recovering from surgery. This dressing stick is designed for sitting or standing users and is adjustable in length to up to 35.5-inches.
Another nifty feature is you can unscrew each end of the 2-in-1 design and use the included travel bag for transporting the stick. One end features an S-hook design, while the other is a shoehorn.
Key Features
- Portable and compact design
- Extended 35.5-inch reach
- 2-in-1 S-hook and shoehorn design
7. Essential Medical Supply Dressing Stick
The Essential Medical Supply Dressing Stick is a simplistic design to aid with putting on clothes. It features a 2-in-1 design that includes an S-shaped hook and a shoehorn. The handle is 24-inches in length and has soft foam for easy grip and enhanced control.
Key Features
- 2-in-1 S-shaped hook and shoehorn
- Extended 24-inch reach
- Soft and comfortable foam handle
8. Enso Life Luxury Dressing Stick
The Enso Life Luxury Dressing Stick is a travel-sized dressing aid perfect for those on the go. It features an unscrewable design that allows the stick to split in half. The exterior is made from durable wood, which is sturdy enough for travel.
Aside from that, the extendable length is 27-inches which is just enough for putting on clothes sitting or standing. Lastly, it’s handmade in the USA.
Key Features
- Highly portable and compact
- 2-in-1 shoehorn and S-hook
- Durable materials meant to last
9. JJDParts Dressing Stick + Shoehorn & Sock Removal Tool
The JJDParts Dressing Stick and Shoehorn and Sock Removal Tool is a completely detachable dressing aid that’s compact and lightweight. It features a 33-inch long body with a detachable shoehorn.
Aside from that, it features sturdy fiber-reinforced ABS plastic and includes a smooth rounded finish to prevent snagging. To make a dressing stick attach the four pieces.
Key Features
- Highly compact
- Sturdy fiber-reinforced ABS plastic
- Extended 33-inch reach
10. SP Ableware Dressing Stick
The last on our list is the SP Ableware Dressing Stick which is a simple dressing stick. It includes a 24-inch long body with a 2-in-1 design. On one end is an S-hook, while the other consists of a zipper pulling hook.
The main pole is made from plastic and is decently durable. Aside from that, the company offers a one-year warranty which covers any damage.
Key Features
- Extended 24-inch reach
- 2-in-1 push-pull and zipper hook design
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty
Conclusion
A dressing stick can help individuals put on their clothes, pick up objects, and undress without the aid of others. Limited mobility doesn’t have to mean you can’t do the basics. Instead, dressing aids such as a dressing stick provide freedom and convenience for anyone who struggles with putting on shirts, pants, shoes, socks, etc.
Sources
LifeZest
Chris Karl
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