Toward Enabling Winter Occupations: Testing a Winter Coat Designed for Older Adults

Background. Previous research indicates that older adults have difficulties using winter clothing, which contributes to their risk of isolation during winter. Research has also shown that a winter coat that requires less flexibility, strength, and dexterity would help support this population. Purpose. This pilot study evaluated the measured and perceived effectiveness of a winter coat prototype that had a funnel sleeve design. Methods. Eight older adults trialed three coats (the participant's own coat, a coat fitted with sleeve gripper, and the prototype coat), which were evaluated though shoulder range of motion measurements and by the participant completing a survey. Findings. Less shoulder range of motion was used to put on the prototype coat. Survey findings support range of motion data that Sleeve Gripper has limited utility. Implications. A funnel sleeve design may require less range of motion at the shoulder compared to other coats.