You’re right, generally compression stockings aren’t recommended to wear at night if sleeping in bed. If someone sleeps in a chair or recliner then they may need to wear some type of support hose to keep the blood moving up to the heart.
They don’t have to be full compression stockings. I have varying levels of compression I wear when I need them. My favorites are athletic ‘sleeves’ they give just the right amount of support and keep my v-veins happy if I have to stand any length of time.
My varicose vein doctor told me the best time to put the stockings on is before getting out of bed in the morning. That way, there’s less chance for swelling and blood circulation issues as the day goes on.