A well-fitting pair of shoes can’t be overestimated later in life. Not only are they comfortable and dependable, but they can also help foster independence. However, finding the right pair of shoes that offers enough support, feels comfortable and fits your normal style can be harder than it sounds.
As we age, our feet often swell and get wider, sometimes even increasing by a full shoe size. Details like laces and thin tongues can make certain types of shoes more difficult to wear, especially when your mobility and dexterity are compromised.
Today, we’ll explore how to find the right pair of shoes, including tips and tricks to improve independence through correct footwear.
Why Does the Right Pair of Shoes Matter?
When we’re young, footwear doesn’t matter all that much–as long as it looks nice and fits well, it’s good enough to wear. However, as we age, even small details, like the fit and support of shoes, can have a big impact on how well we move at home and outside.
Here are just a few reasons why the pair of shoes you choose matters:
- Reduced fall risk: The right footwear will have enough grip and fit well to prevent slips from increasing the risk of falls, injuries and hospital admissions.
- Improved mobility: Wearing comfortable, supportive shoes makes walking easier, encouraging mobility and fostering independence.
- Eases discomfort: Certain health conditions, like arthritis and diabetes, cause discomfort; choosing shoes designed for these conditions can make walking more comfortable.
- Boosts confidence: The ability to move around without pain and discomfort can boost confidence and make it easier to participate in social activities.
Key Features to Look for When Shoe Shopping
The right shoes need to support your specific needs and provide both stability and comfort in everyday life. The best way to find the right shoes is to try them on in-store before buying. Here are the key features to look for:
Proper Fit
A correct fit is essential when dealing with pain or long-term foot conditions. When trying on shoes, make sure there’s enough space around the foot to allow it to breathe, but not too much that the heel slips from the back of the shoe. If you experience swelling in your feet, shop for shoes in the afternoon to avoid getting blisters.
Non-Slip Soles
Always look for rubber soles with strong traction to avoid slipping on smooth surfaces or wet floors. This can greatly reduce your chances of falling and make you more confident while walking. Keep an eye on your shoes’ soles and replace them as soon as the tread wears down.
Good Arch and Heel Support
Not many people know this, but your shoes can contribute to the stress put on your knees and back. Choose a shoe with good arch and heel support to reduce this by supporting your posture, energy and comfort. Many shoes now come with removable insoles for custom orthopaedic alternatives for better support.
Comfort and Breathability
Comfort is an essential part of choosing the right shoe for later in life. Choose footwear made from breathable materials, such as leather, which lets air through to avoid excess sweating building up around your skin. This prevents fungal infections and skin irritation. Other comfort features include padded collars for swollen ankles and memory foam insoles.
Roomy Toe Boxes
It’s more common later in life for your feet to change shape and swell throughout the day. Making sure your footwear has enough room in the toe boxes can prevent crowding, blisters and foot pain. The extra space also supports the natural alignment of your feet and improves your comfort levels.
Simple Fastenings
If you’re experiencing changes in dexterity, you may struggle with shoe fastenings, including shoelaces or thin fastening straps. Velcro straps or slip-on shoes are good alternatives to counter this problem, and they still often provide a secure fit. Elastic laces are also good for those who experience swelling and may need adjustability throughout the day.
Low or No Heels
Generally, older adults should wear shoes with low heels (less than one inch) or no heels at all. This helps maintain posture and balance as they walk, avoiding slips from instability.
Should You Avoid Any Types of Shoes?
While older adults can often wear most types of shoes, certain designs may hurt the feet unnecessarily or provide inadequate support. Consider skipping:
- Flip-flops and sandals: Sandals are easier to slip out of than properly fitting shoes, potentially becoming a trip hazard for older adults.
- High heels and wedges: While they might look nice, shoes with high heels shift weight forward and increase the risk of instability, leading to falls for older adults with balance or dexterity issues.
- Unstructured slippers: Soft slippers or those with low backs offer little to no stability, and can often snag on carpets around the house.
- Second hand or slick-soled shoes: Second hand shoes are often well-worn, reducing traction from the soles and increasing slip risks.
Choosing Footwear for Specific Health Conditions
Older adults are more at risk of certain health conditions, such as diabetes, which can affect the feet and their comfort in normal shoes. If you find your feet hurting after wearing your shoes that used to be comfortable, you might need to consider footwear designed specifically for your health condition.
- Diabetes: Certain shoes can protect against foot ulcers, especially when they have extra depth, seamless designs, and soft cushions to reduce friction and pressure on the feet.
- Bunions: Structural issues, like bunions, are more common in older adults. Wide-toed shoes and soft, supportive materials can reduce the pain and discomfort associated with bunions.
- Arthritis: Shoes with more cushioning and shock-absorbing insoles are important to reduce joint strain and arthritis symptoms. Rocker soles also promote a natural walking motion.
- Balance issues: Balance issues become more prevalent as we age, so shoes with a wide base and low heel can promote stability. If fall risk is a concern, look for reinforced soles and ample ankle support.
Should You Consider Orthopaedic or Custom Footwear?
Specialty shoes can be quite costly and limited in their design options, so it’s important to note that not everyone needs them. Most older adults can wear classic footwear types without issues. However, if you experience the following, it might be time to consider orthopaedic shoes:
- Chronic foot, knee or back problems
- Diabetes or poor circulation
- Bunions, hammertoes or structural changes
- Recent surgery
- Change in walking
Orthopaedic footwear is often most effective when made in conjunction with advice from a podiatrist. They can provide tailored advice and recommendations for insoles to make mobility as easy, painless and independent as possible.
Aids for Making Shoes Easier to Wear
Despite your best efforts, sometimes your new shoes still won’t be as easy to wear as you were hoping. To avoid requiring the assistance of someone to put your shoes on and help you remain independent for longer, consider the following shoe aids:
- Shoe horn: A shoe horn cups your heel to make it easier to slip into your shoes without stepping on the back or having to lean down to use your finger.
- Hands-free magnetic closures: These cover your laces and pop closed once the shoe is on; lean forward in your shoe to pop the magnets and slide them off.
- Boot remover: A handy contraption that lets you step out of your shoes effortlessly, without having to bend down and risk instability.
- Custom insoles: Work with a podiatrist to find the perfect insole design for ultimate comfort, stability and posture.
- Long-handle grabber: This can be handy for picking up dropped laces or pulling the tongue up without having to use your hands.
Talk to Our Team Today
If your loved one requires home care, chat with one of our friendly care team today. We offer a free, no-obligation enquiry and assessment service and are happy to offer information and advice to help you find the perfect home care solution.
Call us on 020 4572 5583 in confidence for a free no obligation quotation. If enquiring outside of our opening hours, please complete our online form and we will contact you the next day.
