Special Clothes For The Handicapped

Special Clothes For The Handicapped MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT Handicapped Equipment 7-2-31 Stylish, attractive clothing is now available for handicapped people with limited mobility of arms and legs who find it difficult to dress themselves in conventional clothes. "We specialize in garments designed for people handicapped by arthritis, strokes, or other problems of old age," says Bill Self, head of the sewing department of Vocational Guidance and Rehabilitiation Services (VGRS) in Cleveland, Ohio. "We make a number of dress styles for women, and basic pants and shirts for men." "The styles feature full shoulders, large easy-to-reach pockets, wrap-around skirts, and easy fasteners. Many of the garments have velcro fasteners that open easily but stay closed when they are supposed to be closed. The clothes are stylish, yet practical to give the wearer an added measure of confidence and independence." Women's garments have sash and scarf accessories. Men's shirts have false button fronts over velcro closures and longer tails that won't ride up. Pants are beltless with a drop-front flap. Garments are available in a variety of colors and in solid or patterned prints. All are made of machine washable polyester or polyester-cotton fabric. Sizes vary from small to extra large. Garments can be ordered directly from the company, but major selling is done through Sears stores and catalogs. Women's dresses range in price from $26-$36. Men's shirts are $23, pants $30. The Ohio company also manufactures other aids for the handicapped such as lap trays, aprons, wheelchair carryalls, and an ingenious device to help put on stockings. VGRS has pioneered clothing for handicapped people and has sold the special garments since 1962. Designs are obtained through nationwide design contests. For more information. contact: FARM SHOW Followup. VGRS. 2239 E. 55th St., Cleveland, Ohio 44103 (ph 216 431-7800).

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