Can novel far-infrared (FIR) socks keep the feet warm in older adults?

Materials used: 3 types of fabrics made into socks Sock 1: Socks made with fabric with no added inorganic minerals (placebo) Sock 2: Socks made with fabric embedded with Hematite Sock 3: Socks made with fabric embedded with Indian Red Ochre Conditions: Condition 1: Sock embedded with Hematite, Condition 2: Sock embedded with Indian Red Ochre, Condition 3: Sock with no mineral additives (placebo). We will test socks made from fabric manufactured with hematite or Indian Red Ochre minerals. Both of these materials emit Far Infrared (FIR) rays in the 4-16 µm range. Initial testing at Nanyang Technological University Materials Engineering Laboratory has determined that these two minerals have optimal heat retention properties when exposed to an infra-red lamp heat source at 34 degrees. The socks will be differentiated in pattern, but neither the assessor nor the participant will know which sock is which (doubleblind). Only one research team member knows the minerals that are embedded in each sock type.There will be a wash out period of 1 week between each test. Procedure: Participants will be asked to attend three sessions each lasting no longer than one hour. Each session will include the following: Session 1: Participants will be specifically asked to rest for 10 minutes while barefoot before an assessor (MH/DS) measures the Ankle Brachial Index, and Toe pressure using a standard clinical doppler vascular assessment kit and temperature gradient (skin temperature over the knee, anterior ankle, ball of the great toe ) using a standard non-contact thermometer. The assessor will place the test sock (Sock1) on the participant. After 30 mins, the vascular assessments will be repeated. After the measurements are taken, the participant will be provided with another 3 pairs of socks to use for the next 7 days. Participants will be asked to use the socks like they would their regular socks. Participants will be asked to keep a log of when and how long they wear the socks over the 7-day period. Session 2: Participants will be provided with a questionnaire to evaluate their satisfaction of Sock 1. The test protocol from Session 1 will be repeated, but using Sock 2 instead. Session 3: Participants will be provided with a questionnaire to evaluate Sock 2. The test protocol from session 1 will be repeated, but using Sock 3. After a week, the participant will be asked to provide feedback for Sock 3 either via the telephone, or via email