Choosing the right clothing for cerebral palsy can have an enormous impact on comfort and convenience.
Cerebral palsy (CP) impacts muscle coordination and movement, which can make dressing and undressing challenging for some.
Let’s explore some practical dressing tools and features to look for when exploring cerebral palsy clothing.
Adapted Clothing For Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy describes a group of conditions that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture.
The symptoms and severity can vary widely, so it's essential to understand your specific needs when choosing clothing. This may help to advise on which adaptive features will be most useful.
Common mobility considerations may include:
- A limited range of motion.
- Muscle stiffness or spasticity.
- Difficulty with fine motor skills.
- Sensitivity to certain fabrics or textures.
Practical Tips for Choosing Clothing for Cerebral Palsy
So, what makes a piece of clothing perfect for cerebral palsy?
1. Prioritize Comfort and Soft Fabrics
Comfort is key when selecting clothing for anyone with CP. Where possible try to choose soft, breathable fabrics that won’t irritate the skin or cause discomfort.
Natural fibers like cotton are often good choices and you should look for closures that are non-irritant.
2. Look for Adaptive Clothing Features
Adaptive clothing is designed to make dressing easier for people with disabilities. It has special features to simplify dressing and remove barriers for those with mobility or dexterity concerns.
Here are some good features to look for if exploring clothing for CP:
- Magnetic or Velcro Closures: Velcro closures or magnets are easier to manage than traditional buttons or zippers, especially for those with limited dexterity. You should bear in mind that magnets can interfere with medical devices like pacemakers.
- Elastic Waistbands: These allow for easier dressing and provide a comfortable fit without the need for belts or fasteners.
- Front Openings: Front-fastening clothing and front-adjusting straps can make a huge difference for those with CP who have difficulty lifting their arms or sitting up.
3. Choose Loose-Fitting and Stretchable Clothes
Clothing that is loose-fitting and made from stretchable materials can accommodate a range of movements and positions. This flexibility is particularly important for those who use wheelchairs or other mobility aids.
4. Consider Seamless and Tagless Options
Seams and tags can cause discomfort and irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. Choose seamless clothing and tagless labels whenever possible if a symptom you experience is skin sensitivity.
Recommended Clothing Items for Cerebral Palsy
With these features in mind, what clothing is available for those with Cerebral palsy?
Adaptive Bras for Cerebral Palsy
Adaptive bras can offer independence and comfort for those with CP. Front-fastening, soft Velcro bras with additional O-rings for grip mean that even those with mobility concerns can fasten the bra without straining.
Adaptive Pants and Trousers
Adaptive pants with elastic waistbands, side openings, or Velcro closures can make dressing much easier. Here are a couple of options:
Adaptive Shirts and Tops
Look for shirts with magnetic buttons, Velcro closures, or wide neck openings. These features help with independent dressing without overstraining or frustration.
Adaptive Footwear
Shoes that are easy to put on and take off, such as those with Velcro straps or elastic laces, are ideal for those with CP. Footwear should always be secure to avoid trips or falls.
Tools to Assist with Dressing
In addition to adaptive clothing, there are a number of tools available that can assist with dressing and undressing:
- Dressing Sticks: These help to reach and manipulate clothing for a simplified routine.
- Button Hooks: Useful for fastening buttons without fine motor skills or limited hand dexterity.
- Zipper Pulls: Make zipping up jackets and pants easier by providing larger areas to manipulate.
- Sock Aids: Assist in putting on socks without bending over.
Choosing the right clothing for cerebral palsy means considering comfort, ease of use, and adaptability.
Want more fashionable adaptive options? Take a look at our guide.