Why should the Elderly wear Compression Socks?

We already talked about compression socks and what impact could they have on us. Whatever the age or the profile, we all sometimes need compression socks. But, why do the elderly need compression socks?

Well, the benefits of compression socks for the elderly are numerous. We have all experienced tired feet from time to time, but with age, this occurs more frequently. Circulation problems are most likely to occur at a later age, and our body isn’t as strong and vital to fight it. Walking becomes harder for many reasons – varicose veins, fluid retention, knuckle pain, etc. And without healthy walks and movement, circulation slows down. So, it is somewhat a never-ending circle when we come to a certain age. Because of that, we need support from medical garments and devices, such as compression garments or, in this case, compression socks.

First, let us talk about some problems elderly people face, so we can better answer the question “why are compression socks good for elderly?”

Here are some health issues that are not rare but can be eased with the help of compression socks.

Varicose veins

Varicose veins are a condition where veins become fuller and twisted. Normally, this happens to veins that are close to the skin’s surface, thus they are visible. The symptoms of varicose veins can be:

• Pain after a longer period without movement
• Itching or tingling around the veins
• Feeling heavy in your legs, having a harder time standing
• Muscle twitches or crams
• Visible marks such as thickened veins and skin discoloration

This condition can happen in pregnancy, illness, obesity, and age. When the blood pressure in veins jumps and the vein walls weaken, the condition is formed.

The first weapon in fighting the condition at home is exercise and movement. The problem with elderly people is that any other factors cause movement harder, so it is not always an applicable solution. Therefore, it is highly recommended to get your body used for exercises when you are younger, in your middle age, so you would maintain a healthy level of physical activity once you are older. With age not only muscles weaken, but also bones, flexibility and our level of energy decrease. Because of this, many people in this age move very little or not at all, causing more damage to their bodies.  

Compression socks are a second recommended tool that can help us with varicose veins. It would be better if we also did exercises and move around, but during a period of long sitting or standing, compression can keep our blood flowing. There are also numerous types of compression garments that can help – compression leggings for varicose veins, compression stockings or socks, etc.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot that happens in a deep vein, which goes through muscles. The symptoms are similar to that of the varicose veins – pain, redness, discomfort when bending the foot, etc. The number one home remedy for DVT are graduated compression socks. 

Venous insufficiency and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)

People with this condition have a problem with stasis, which is a pooling of blood in the veins. Blood doesn’t have the natural ease of going back to the heart, so it collects in the veins. The symptom of this condition may include:

• Swelling
• Pain 
• Pain in the ankles and discoloration
• Varicose veins

The most prescribed treatment is compression socks. 

Now you can see that there is no doubt in the benefits of compression socks for the elderly. Even without these conditions, in that age, a little help with maintaining our normal and healthy blood flow could make our days better. But, looking at the huge industry of compression garments, which to choose?

The best compression socks for the elderly

The best compression socks for seniors vary considering the problem. If you don’t suffer from any of these conditions, the best compression socks are those with light or mild compression, because they improve the blood flow, but for those, you don’t need a doctor’s prescription. If you do, then here is some help.

What are the best compression socks for varicose veins, DVT and CVI?

• The best compression socks for varicose veins are those of strength from mild to moderate. Varicose veins are not a significant health problem, so with a little or moderate help, you can already feel the difference.
• The best compression socks for DVT are also those with mild to moderate strength. Of course, if you do feel a significant discomfort or pain both with DVT or varicose veins, you should consult your doctor about getting the stronger compression.
• The best compression for venous insufficiency is the one your doctor prescribes. This compression will probably be stronger than normal, and the stockings sometimes need to be graduated. This means that compression is stronger in one part of the leg but gradually becomes looser.

Benefits of compression sock for elderly

Compression socks can help you with:

• Reducing swelling in feet and legs
• Normalizing your natural blood flow
• Fight with cold feet
• Overcoming discomforts of varicose veins, DVT and CVI
• Lifting the weight off your legs and easing your movement
• Reducing tingles, muscle twitches, and crumps

Besides these benefits, Skineez compression socks will also help you:

• Hydrate your skin
• Revitalize the skin tissue
• Fight with fungi and bacteria
• Reduce skin irritation and redness