In a world where fashion and apparel often overlook many of the common physical needs of the Aging population, inclusive clothing steps in as an important solution that can lead to empowerment and dignity. Just like for younger people, dressing isn’t just about covering up for older adults; it’s a powerful form of self-expression and autonomy. Inclusive clothing for seniors, designed with both style and functionality in mind, plays a crucial role in boosting confidence, ensuring comfort, and promoting independence. Let’s delve into how adapting fashion to fit the needs of older adults can make a significant difference in their lives.

Importance of Fashion for Older Adults 

Fashion serves as a vital tool for self-expression and identity for people of all ages, including older adults. However, as we age, our bodies and needs change, making it necessary for clothing to adapt accordingly. Adaptive designs in senior fashion not only accommodate physical and mobility changes but also ensure that older adults don’t have to compromise on style. By wearing clothes they love and feel good in, seniors can maintain their sense of identity and zest for life.

Why is Inclusive Clothing for Older Adults Necessary? 

Self Expression

Inclusive clothing allows seniors to continue showcasing their personal style and preferences, despite any physical limitations. It enables them to communicate their identity and personality through what they wear.

Provides Independence 

Adaptive features like zippers, elastic waistbands, and magnetic buttons make dressing easier, fostering independence among seniors who face challenges getting dressed and undressed with traditional garments.

Comfort and Functionality 

Designing clothes that are easy to wear yet fashionable ensures that older adults don’t have to sacrifice comfort for style. This balance is crucial for everyday wear and special occasions alike. Consideration should be given to comfortable fabrics and roomy fits to ensure comfort and ease of movement.

Provides Dignity 

​​Inclusive clothing is designed to be put on and taken off with ease, promoting dignity in dressing and reducing reliance on others for assistance with these personal tasks.

Boosts Confidence 

Wearing clothes that are both stylish and functional boosts seniors’ confidence, making them feel better about themselves. Inclusive fashion may mean more confidence in socializing and leaving home, knowing that your clothes will be easy to use and feel good on you.

Prevents Ageism 

Fashion-forward, inclusive clothing challenges stereotypes associated with aging, showing that style has no age limit. Inclusive clothing, like good style, never goes out of fashion.  

Helps with Incontinence

Specifically designed garments that discreetly accommodate incontinence products can significantly reduce Stress and embarrassment for seniors dealing with incontinence. You can still look your best and feel at ease with inclusive pants that are easy to use.

Time Saving

For caregivers, adaptive clothing can significantly reduce the time and effort required to assist with dressing, making daily routines more efficient and less stressful. And those who wear inclusive clothing will also save time each day because of an easier dressing experience.

Stylish Adaptive Clothing Options for Older Adults

At Joe & Bella, we understand the transformative power of clothing. Our range of adaptive clothing options for seniors includes:

• CareZips® Adaptive Pants: Equipped with two waist-to-knee side zippers as well as an inseam zipper for easy access to incontinence products and other medical devices.
• Everyday Side-Zip Pants: Featuring two waist-to-knee side zippers along with premium fabric and a smooth elastic waistband.
• Freedom Chinos: Stylish and elevated, with two waist-to-ankle side zippers.
• Everyday Magnetic Button-Down: Easy to open and close men’s shirt, with hidden magnets and stretch fabric.
• Open-Back Tops for Men and Women: Because they open in the back similar to a  hospital gown, these tops make dressing with assistance from another person easier, allowing the wearer to dress without raising their arms overhead.
• Anti-Slip Socks with Grippers: Our premium extra-wide socks with silicone grippers help reduce the chances of slipping, providing greater confidence the wearer.

Conclusion

Inclusive clothing for seniors is more than just a niche in fashion; it’s a movement towards empowering older adults to live their lives with dignity, independence, and style. Joe & Bella are at the forefront of this movement, offering adaptive clothing that boosts confidence, supports functionality, and celebrates the individuality of every senior. Embracing inclusive fashion is a meaningful step towards a world where age does not define anyone’s ability to express themselves through what they wear.

Originally Published on https://joeandbella.com/blogs/news

Ben Graham Joe & Bella VP of Marketing

Ben Graham is the Vice President of Marketing at Joe & Bella, an adaptive-apparel company for older adults that focuses on creating innovative and fashionable apparel. Joe & Bella was recently awarded the “Most Innovative Older Adult Clothing Brand: 2022” by Global Health and “2022 Best New Apparel Brand” by Boomer Venture Summit. Joe & Bella’s first adaptive clothing line, CareZips, won the 2022 "Best New Product”award by Today’s Caregiver Magazine and Caregiver.com. Ben was previously Vice President of Marketing and Partnerships at Collaborata, an innovative marketing-research firm that brought corporate partners together to find solutions to business problems. Collaborata focuses on topics including caregiving, aging, diversity, and equity with clients such as AARP, Procter & Gamble, Bank of America, Target, and Nike. Ben spent many years, together with his family, providing care for his two grandparents who lived for nearly a decade in assisted living and memory care.