Adult bibs, now known as clothing protectors, have been designed and developed to allow seniors to feel comfortable and in control while eating and drinking. They can also be used by people with disabilities, including those living with the aftermath of a stroke, cerebral palsy, or other impairments. The use of clothing protectors ensures that clothing remains dry if drooling is a problem. Traditionally regarded as an item used by infants and toddlers, there are adult versions designed that are not only developed with food mishaps in mind, but with independence, dignity and comfort in mind.
Types of bibs for adults
There are a variety of different types of bibs on the market that may appeal to different users and their caregivers. Most of the designs can be adapted to be accessible to everyone without appearing medical. They are a form of adaptable clothing that assist and help different wearers with personal care needs.
Tabard Style
Tabard style bibs can be popular with wheelchair users as they are easy to put on and take off while sitting without too much trouble and can be put on when dressing if necessary or simply used for meals. Users can remain in their seat while donning or doffing the tabard. They are also great for use in hospitals as a patient can put them on quickly with no problem to allow eating and most available are machine washable and waterproof.
Traditional Style
Traditional-style bibs are much like those worn by young children and are often found in residential care settings. They’re completely adequate for preventing food spills, although many are made of thin plastic or towel material, which means they need to be changed relatively regularly. In addition, the need to tie them at the back of the neck means that they cannot necessarily be used by people who have difficulty with weak grip, cannot reach easily, or are hemiplegic. Like most adaptive clothing, Velcro is often used to assist and help make it easy to put on at the back.
Pashmina style
Most popular with the ladies and specifically from the Bibetta brand, Pashmina style items are completely understated and allow for a stylish and attractive addition to any outfit. Looking like a regular scarf but with all the qualities of a decent adult bib, including waterproof layers, this style of bib won’t leave you feeling distressed in any setting. It can be put on when dressing in the morning or simply for meals.
When to use adult bibs and why
There are many occasions when an adult bib may be considered necessary. During the stroke recovery period it can be extremely upsetting and uncomfortable for the person who has suffered the stroke and their family, especially if dribbling has become a problem. An adult bib can make it easy to discreetly make sure it stays hidden without wetting your clothes and causing even more discomfort. This may also be something to consider for other people living with disabilities, which means that drooling is commonplace.
Likewise, an adult bib provides protection against spills and scalds when eating and drinking. Putting on the bib means you are protected if you live with tremors or involuntary spasms and often have little accidents. Your clothes are protected and you can feel more comfortable while eating out on time. Most can easily be stored in your bag so you can take them out when you need them and secure them safely at other times. It makes dining in public easier and less worrying.
As already mentioned, adult bibs are also a great idea for hospital use and also in residential care settings, where they can ensure that caregivers can provide meals and drinks to patients, who are having difficulty feeding, without the risk of spillage. or injuries.
Use of clothing protectors in everyday life
Bibs are far from something just worn by babies and should be considered a useful additional accessory for many people living with disabilities rather than something to be embarrassed or uncomfortable about. Like many other pieces of adaptive and supportive gear, adult bibs and clothing protectors can become something you wear every day and make a world of difference.