Article - Grooming Made Easy!

One of the most common New Year's resolutions is to look and feel better. However, when low vision, arthritis or assorted other aches and pains make bathing and dressing a difficult and painful experience, grooming often becomes a half-hearted, if not neglected, effort.

Don't under estimate the need for good grooming habits. When we look good, we feel good. There are a variety of grooming aids and practical solutions that enable a person to reclaim some independence when it comes to performing personal tasks such as washing and dressing. Treat yourself or someone you love to a few inexpensive products that will help them start the day feeling their best.

Here are some of the most popular grooming aids on our website, and some tips to make self-care easier and more enjoyable:

Magnified Extension Mirror: If you cannot stand in front of the bathroom mirror or you are straining to see your image, this mirror will stretch 30 inches out from where it is mounted on the wall. Its two-sided design enables you to flip from a standard reflection to a mirror with 4.5 times magnification. The mirror can also be adjusted to hold any angle.

• Tip: Get a Better Grip Having trouble holding your toothbrush or mascara? Try wrapping the handle with a washcloth and secure it with rubber bands. This creates a wider, non-slip surface to grip.

Long-handled Sponges: These foam sponges provide a more comfortable method of washing the back and lower extremities for people with reduced range of motion. No more bending or stooping to wash or apply lotion to your feet. Diabetics also find it invaluable in helping to prevent foot infections.

Long-handled Hair Washer, Comb and Brush: People with limited range of shoulder motion can use these ergonomically designed, lightweight tools to manage their hair. The length and curve of the handle allow you to reach the entire scalp with your hand positioned in front of your chest.

Hair Dryer Holder: Slip your hair dryer into the holder position it and let go for hands-free hair drying. This product is particularly helpful for those with the use of just one hand.

Talking Bathroom Scale: There are no secrets with this scale. Step on it and the large LED readout will display your weight while a loud, clear voice announces it. The volume is adjustable or can be turned off.

Another component of grooming is getting dressed. Traditional clothing can often cause unforeseen problems for people with physical limitations.

• Tip: Plan your wardrobe around loose fitting clothing It is easier to get in and out of the clothing and it is also more comfortable during the course of the day. We recommend apparel that does not need to be pulled on over the head. Instead, choose clothing with closures that fasten in the front. Replace buttons, zippers and shoe laces with press to close (hook and loop) fasteners whenever possible.

In addition the following products and tips aid in dressing:

Dressing Stick with a Small Hook: Aids in maneuvering clothing while getting dressed or undressed. This plastic-coated, combination hook/pusher pulls up slacks or skirts and pushes off socks or jackets. The small hook on the end can be used to pull zippers or shoelace loops.

• Tip: Just For Zippers If your favorite dress has a zipper in the back or the zipper on your pants is too small to get a grip on, there's still a way to handle it. Loop a piece of nylon thread or fishing line through the eye of the zipper and knot it. The length of the loop should be enough to get a finger through or to help you reach with the dressing stick. Pull up the loop up until the zipper is closed, and then tuck the loop inside so it will not be visible.

Sock Aid: The soft terry cloth on one side of this tool grips the sock, while smooth nylon on the other side reduces friction, allowing the foot to slip in easily. Bending is eliminated by using the long cord handles to pull up the sock aid and the sock.

Button Hook: For people who have trouble manipulating buttons, this tool has a thick handle with a wire loop attached. The loop goes through the buttonhole and over the button. The button is then pulled back through the buttonhole.

The ability to maintain a neat and attractive appearance enhances self-image. You may have to approach your daily tasks a little differently, but the effort is worth it.

© Copyright 2001 Dynamic Living, Inc.
Dynamic Living Newsletter may only be redistributed in its unedited form. Written permission from the editor must be obtained to reprint or cite the information contained within this newsletter.

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