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© SGS Société Générale de Surveillance SA.
© SGS Société Générale de Surveillance SA.
Demand for clothing tailored to the needs of the elderly is soaring in response to an aging global population. However, understanding their unique requirements – including safety, comfort, dignity and style – is essential for businesses aiming to thrive in this dynamic yet underserved market.
According to the United Nations, there were approximately 962 million people aged 60 and above in 2017, with a large share of this demographic concentrated in Europe and Japan.1 The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that this figure grew to 1.1 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach 1.4 billion by 2030, with the fastest growth expected in developing regions.2
As the global population skews older, it is creating a rapidly expanding consumer base and substantial opportunities for garment manufacturers. Reflecting this trend, the global clothing market for seniors, valued at USD 11.80 billion in 2023, is projected to reach USD 44.70 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 15.95% between 2024 to 2032.3
Seniors are increasingly drawn to clothing that seamlessly blends style and functionality, moving away from outdated, purely utilitarian designs. A 2024 survey revealed that 72% of seniors favor garments that support active lifestyles while maintaining a youthful, dignified look.4
Innovations in textile technology enable manufacturers to produce clothing with superior comfort, performance and protective features. Effective designs incorporate functional elements tailored to mobility, dexterity and specific health needs, alongside customizable options and sustainable benefits, all while maintaining modern, stylish aesthetics that boost confidence and self-esteem.
Safety is a critical element when creating garments for the elderly. Key considerations include:
Clothing must support daily activities while combining practicality with style to enhance confidence. Features to consider include:
In line with global trends, sustainability is now a priority for elderly consumers. Seniors with their life experiences understand the significance of sustainability. A 2022 study found that Generation X and older consumers are willing to engage in sustainable behavior.5
Solutions for manufacturers to produce sustainable clothing include:
Elderly fashion is more than clothing; it empowers seniors to live independently with confidence. With the market poised for substantial growth, manufacturers have a unique opportunity to innovate through adaptive, eco-friendly designs while responding to the growing demand for youthful, stylish aesthetics. Achieving this balance requires investment in research, development and collaboration with healthcare providers, retailers and sustainable suppliers.
At the same time, e-commerce is reshaping the shopping habits of seniors. In 2024, 72% of US seniors reported making online purchases, drawn to the convenience of user-friendly platforms.6 Features like voice navigation and large-font interfaces make online shopping accessible, empowering seniors to explore a wider range of clothing options from the comfort of their home.
By creating inclusive, customizable solutions and leveraging digital accessibility and consumer education, businesses can capture this dynamic and expanding market.
We understand the unique needs of senior consumers and the challenges of designing garments for the elderly. Our multiple-facet solutions support every stage of development, including material selection, design optimization, function and performance assessment and sustainability considerations. With advanced testing solutions, we help ensure garments are safe, comfortable, reliable and functional. Through rigorous evaluation of materials, fit and usability, we deliver actionable insights that enable manufacturers to create apparel tailored to the specific needs of seniors.
Key approaches include:
Through our global network of state-of-the-art laboratories, we provide testing solutions for brands and manufacturers across all markets, enhancing safety, comfort, performance and sustainability. In the end, it’s trusted because it’s tested.
Learn more about SGS’s Softlines services.
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1World Population Prospects (United Nations)
2Ageing: Global population (World Health Organization)
3Elderly Clothing Market Report – Global Forecast From 2025 To 2033
4Elderly Clothing Market Report – Global Forecast From 2025 To 2033
5Consumer shift to favor sustainable practices creates key opportunities and challenges for global fashion brands—Bain & Company & WWF Italy report
62025 Tech Trends and Adults 50-Plus
7SGS E-shower evaluation provides a comprehensive analysis of a ready garment’s water resistance properties
