If you've been using compression socks, you'll be aware of how tight these socks are due to their function. Imagine yourself needing a pair of compression stockings when you're 70 or older - with arthritis and joint weakness and pain.
Anyone can wear compression socks, but older adults will definitely benefit the most from wearing them. As people age, their health deteriorates as their physical and mental health decline over time. This is why older adults are prone to health problems and chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, arthritis, cardiovascular disease and circulatory problems.
The Science Behind Compression Socks and Why Seniors Should Try Them
1. How Compression Stockings Help Seniors
You can only imagine how hard it was when you were in your 60s. After that age, even simple tasks and activities may require ongoing care and assistance. That's why life is as simple as possible.
The benefits of compression socks
Seniors deserve all the material help and support they need during their sunset days. Compression stockings do these things to them physically:
- Enhance their blood circulation.
- Reduce risk and prevent edema.
- Helps lymphatic drainage.
- Relieve pain in legs and feet.
- relieve the symptoms of varicose veins,
- Provide extra support for their legs and feet.
- Facilitate recovery from surgery.
- prevent blood clotting.
2. What is the correct way to wear compression socks?
Wearing a pair of compression socks can be a bit of a challenge for older adults because it can strain your hands or feet when they put them on. However, there are some ways to properly wear a pair of compression socks.
- Sit on a stable surface that will not lose your balance.
- Put your foot on the other leg.
- Instead of tying up the socks, pull them out to the middle of the foot.
- Slowly slide into the foot and pull the sock up.
- Smooth out the socks and make sure there are no wrinkles all over the body.
It's also important to note that for older adults, it's best to apply lotion or skin moisturizer to the legs to prevent the skin from reacting to the fabric.
3. Tips for Wearing Compression Stockings
There are other ways to put on compression stockings quickly, especially for older adults who may find it difficult to pull up on socks, sleeves, or stockings. The trick is - plastic bags!
Yes, as simple as any plastic bag can help not only seniors, but anyone. So here are some easy ways to put on compression stockings using a plastic bag.
- Get a shopping bag or any large plastic bag, and a pair of scissors.
- Lengthen the bag and cut the bottom end for the opening.
- Put the plastic bag inside one sock and make the incision all the way to the end. Make sure the handle of the plastic bag is sticking out.
- Put your feet in plastic bags and socks.
- Hold the handle while gently pulling it towards your leg.
- When the sock is on your leg, smooth it out, making sure there are no creases, and pull the bag out of the sock.
- Just remove the plastic bag from the leg and you're done!
Another tip for putting on compression socks using a plastic bag is:
- Place the bottom end of the plastic bag between your big toe and second toe.
- Make sure the plastic bag is under your feet.
- Gently slide your foot into the compression sock, pulling it to its length.
- Smooth out the socks to make sure there are no wrinkles.
- Grab the plastic bag and slowly pull it out.
With these tips in hand, you can also try putting some talcum powder on your legs and feet so the socks can glide on smoothly.
4. Possible side effects of compression stockings on the elderly
There are guidelines on how to properly wear compression stockings to avoid the side effects it can cause to an individual, especially if that person is an elderly person. Here are the possible adverse effects of compression socks
- Skin irritation, redness and itching.
- Sweat smell.
- Blood circulation is not normal due to incorrect size.
- If the socks are not flattened, dents or marks will appear on the skin.
- Inflammation of the ankles and joints
These are just some of the most common side effects of compression stockings not being worn properly. There may be additional health risks for older adults who use compression stockings. Protocols and instructions should be strictly followed to avoid such problems for the wearer.