Senior Living News

As winter approaches the Creve Coeur area, it's a great time to be thinking about cozy clothes and accessories that are great for combating colder temperatures. Socks are a favorite accessory among seniors at the Autumn View Gardens community for keeping feet warm and snug during chilly nights and days. Here are some great sock choices to keep you warm this winter.

Fuzzy Socks

Often sold in fun patterns and colors, fuzzy socks are a great choice to keep feet warm while feeling festive. Most are made of soft cotton, but thicker choices may be made of wool. Choose your materials carefully: make sure the material your socks are made of feels comfortable. With an ideal pair, your feet should feel warm but not sweaty or scratchy.

Toe Socks

While certainly not for everyone, toe socks are a fun option during holiday get-togethers and functions. Many seniors may be surprised to know that toe socks actually have several benefits:

• Circulation: Because the toes stay separated, it encourages proper circulation among individual toes. Some versions also don't have seams, which also encourages better circulation.
• Proper Balance: Toe socks can help feet feel less restricted, and because toes are separated naturally, they can help provide better balance when walking.
• Keep Cool: Usually constructed from breathable cotton, toe socks can also prevent your feet from feeling too warm.

Slipper Socks

Slipper socks are designed to feel like socks, but they're worn around the foot more like slippers. Some slipper socks have rubber grips on the bottom to prevent slips and falls, which some seniors find helpful for wearing while walking on linoleum or hardwood floors.

Functional Socks

While some socks are chosen for their fun appeal, other socks can be more functional and serve to keep seniors healthy.

Diabetic Socks

Specially designed to offer maximum blood flow for seniors with diabetes, diabetic socks have a loose, non-constricting fit and are generally seamless to prevent unpleasant rubbing against the skin. Choose models with extra padding and cushioning for sensitive areas to help increase comfort. Some diabetic socks are also moisture-wicking to keep feet dry and prevent infections.

Nonskid Socks

Usually available in fun patterns and colors, nonskid socks have rubber grips on the bottoms of them that can prevent you from falling on bare floors. Many are made from super-soft chenille material that feels comforting on the skin and keeps feet warm.

Choosing the Right Pair of Socks

If you're celebrating National Sock Day on December 4, you might want to make sure you have a favorite pair on hand. If you're in the market for new socks, here are some things to consider before you buy:

• Fabrics: Choose materials you're most comfortable with wearing. Most socks are made of cotton, acrylic or wool.
• Size: Socks should fit snugly without cramping your toes. There should also be no extra material that could potentially cause you to trip or produce uncomfortable friction. Choose sock sizes based on your shoe size.
• Length: Some socks sit around the ankle, and others may pull up to just below the knee. Select a pair in the length most comfortable for you, whether that's ankle, crew or knee length.