When we were looking for shoes for my husband recently, I was introduced to a whole new world of adaptive clothing. Velcro, zippers with large pulls, stretchy materials, hidden elastic panels, clothing of all types designed in ways to make getting them on and off so much easier. It was eye opening. However, I have a husband who doesn’t like change. He has had the same haircut for 60 years now other than it is getting a little thin on top. Rather than try to get him into different styles of clothing, I decided to look for ways that allow him to wear what he likes while simplifying the process of getting dressed.

One thing that immediately comes to mind is going up a size.  He likes to wear blue jeans and by going a size bigger they slide on easier. He is able to still manage a belt, so they don’t fall down or ride too low. He enjoys button shirts and had always tucked his shirttails in. We had a talk and weeded out form-fitting and longer shirts so that what he has left are loose fitting with squared bottoms or shorter tails. If I leave all but the top 2 or 3 buttons done up, he can slip the shirt over his head like a t-shirt. This works great with short sleeves, and we’ll be experimenting with long sleeves soon. He likes to wear t-shirts or sweatshirts and can manage those on his own. Socks are an issue for my husband.  He can put on ankle socks but says that his shins get cold. If I am able to buy loose fitting socks, he can put them on but then they bunch up in his shoes, so for now I am still helping him. Once the socks are on, he does his own shoes.

Being able to continue to dress himself comfortably has been important component in my husband’s journey. The minor modifications we have made help him maintain his individuality and support his dignity. I am always close in the event he needs additional assistance. Everything he is able to do for himself lightens my load, a winning situation for both of us.