5 Inexpensive Tools to Make Dressing Easier

1. Button hook/Zipper pull

Button hooks are a simple design that can make a big difference for people who struggle with buttoning and unbuttoning their shirt. To operate the button hook, simply push the metal piece of the device through the button hole, wrap it around the button, and then pull the device back through the hole. It can also be used in reverse to unbutton. Some styles of button hooks come with a hook on the end to help with zippers.

Costs on average between $6 - $20

2. Elastic Shoe Laces

For those with difficulty gripping or bending down, tying shoe laces can be especially difficult. A simple solution is elastic laces which can be added to any lace up shoe to essentially turn it into a slip on. Elastic laces are available at most stores and come in many colors. If the elastic shoe lace is too small you can always double up by using two laces on each side. Elastic shoe laces can also be helpful for those with dementia who may have some difficulty with tying shoes.

Costs on average between $3 - $10

3. Long-Handled Shoe Horn

The long-handled shoe horn is exactly what you’d think, a shoe horn with a long handle. The shoe horn can be placed within the shoe to allow for the foot to more easily slide into place. These can be especially helpful for people with difficulty bending down.

Costs on average between $5 - $20

4. Reacher/Grabber

Reachers (also called grabbers) are long metal or sometimes plastic sticks with a claw like attachment on one end and a trigger and handle on the other end. They are designed for those with difficulty bending or reaching and can be used for picking up items by positioning the claw on the item and then holding down the trigger to hold it in place. They can also be a helpful tool for getting pants on when bending is difficult as well as many other clever ideas. Many people rate them as one of their favorite tools.

Costs on average between $8 - $20

5. Sock Aide

Though a relatively simple design, the sock aide is an ingenious invention used by those with difficulty bending to put on their socks. To use a sock aide, simply pull your sock over the end of the tool that doesn't have handles until it sits snugly on the sock aide. Use the handles to position it in front of your foot, pull up and- voila, you have a sock on!

Costs on average between $8 - $20