Compression socks can be a lifesaver

Medicare does not recognize compression socks as “durable medical equipment,” so it does not provide coverage across the board. However, as of Jan. 1, 2024, Medicare Part B began covering

compression garments for people who have been diagnosed with lymphedema (a chronic condition that causes swelling in body tissue). Additionally, some Medicare Advantage plans provide

coverage for over-the-counter medical expenses, which could include compression socks. Contact your Advantage plan provider to confirm coverage, limits on the price or quantity of socks you

purchase, and any terms for reimbursement. Here are some types of compression socks to consider. WIDE CALF COMPRESSION SOCKS Wide Calf Compression Socks ($28+, vimvigr.com) Vim & Vigr, a

brand of compression socks popular with nurses, offers a wide variety of sock styles — wide calf, traditional, merino wool, cotton, solid, print and patterned — along with various levels of

compression (moderate/everyday, 15-20 mmHg; moderate to firm, 20-30 mmHg; and firm/medical grade, 30-40 mmHg). My sister, who is a nurse, introduced me to wide calf compression socks, which

is what she wears. I’ve found them to be a bit easier to get over my mom’s feet than traditional compression socks. By design, compression socks are tight and fitted, but the wider calf

makes them easier to get on. Once on, they also provide a more comfortable fit for people with bigger ankles and calves. Vim & Vigr has a video that includes tips for putting on

compression socks. COMPRESSION LEG SLEEVES AND OPEN TOE SOCKS Compression Leg Sleeves ($28+, vimvigr.com) Leg compression sleeves are typically used by nurses and athletes or anyone looking

to benefit from compression in their calves while still wearing their own socks (which may be better suited to particular activities). These compression leg sleeves from Vim & Vigr also

work well for seniors or anyone who spends a lot of time sitting. Since my mom is prone to fungal infections on her toes, we’ve asked the care team at her memory facility to take her socks

off before she goes to bed. But she could still benefit from compression overnight. These leg sleeves offer a solution by helping to reduce calf and ankle swelling while she sleeps without

making her feet sweat. They also work well when she wears slippers or other slip-on footwear. A similar option are these open-toe compression socks, which cover the lower leg, heels and

mid-foot yet leave the toes open for an overnight breather or while wearing sandals.