Your Guide In Choosing The Best Shoes For Seniors
When people think of a shoe for seniors, they usually think of flat shoes and open-toed shoes. This is because these types of shoes are easier to slip on and off when doing things like getting in and out of bed or taking a shower. But, there are other benefits with these types of shoes as well that you might not know about!
9 Of The Best Shoes For Seniors
1. Lightweight Shoes
Some shoes are constructed to be lightweight, perfect for seniors who have a lot of physical activity or are on their feet all day and also for seniors who find it hard to walk on a daily basis.
2. High Heel Shoes
High heel shoes are perfect for senior women with arthritis in their ankles because they provide extra arch support and make it easier for them to walk and stand up. High heeled shoes do tend to feel less stable, however, so they should only be worn by senior women who can control themselves when wearing them.
3. Sandals
Sandals are amazing with the right kind of support for feet and ankles because they keep the arches supported and provide more cushioning under the foot which prevents painful blisters from forming as much as possible.
4. Adjustable Strap Shoes
Shoes with adjustable straps are much easier to adjust for aging feet. They also stretch out a little bit with wear, making them more comfortable and fit well enough that seniors will be able to wear them all day without getting blisters or having their feet hurt when they take them off at night.
5. Slip-on Shoes
It’s much easier to put on slip-on shoes than it is to bend over and put on regular shoes every time you want to go somewhere, especially outdoors. This is an optimal type of shoe for seniors who have a hard time getting on and off their feet.
6. Shoe Inserts
Many shoes come with extra inserts, like gel inserts or extra padding, that can make your older shoes feel just like new again. If you try on a pair of older shoes and they don’t seem to be as comfortable as they used to be, it’s always best to consider buying one or two additional pairs of the same shoe which will at least allow you to wear them longer.
7. Wave-siping Soles
Shoes with wave-siping soles are much more stable and slip-resistant than regular shoes and they are a great choice for seniors who have a hard time with traction or balancing themselves.
8. Velcro Straps
If you’re not confident to tie your own shoelaces, Velcro straps will be much easier for you to work with. They’re also more secure than shoelaces because they won’t come untied, which is a definite bonus!
9. Lace-less Shoes
Shoes that don’t have laces can be more comfortable because they don’t require tying or untying every time you wear them. They’re also more convenient to wear because you won’t have to struggle with trying to tie a bow or a knot every time you put the shoes on.
Tips In Choosing The Best Shoes For Seniors
1. Check The Arch
Shoes with a rounded, high arch will give seniors the best support. Low or flat arches can lead to foot and ankle pain as well as knee and hip pain.
2. Consider Heel Height
Low heels are usually better for older people because they prevent tripping and falling. High heels are dangerous for anyone who has trouble walking, but it’s important to buy shoes that feel comfortable and that you will be able to wear all day without having your feet hurt at the end of the day.
3. Look For Shoe Inserts If Necessary
If you’re buying shoes that feel too flat or otherwise uncomfortable, try looking for shoes with inserts that can make them more comfortable for your feet and ankles.
4. Check The Traction
Shoes with a lot of grip will make it easier for seniors to stand up and move around on hard surfaces. Low traction shoes are less safe than high traction shoes, so make sure to buy enough pairs that you feel confident in buying.
5. Look For Stability
Good arch support is important in the middle of the foot, but it’s also important to make sure your feet aren’t slipping and sliding when you walk because this could cause disorientation and other problems, Slipper-like shoes are a good choice for seniors who have trouble walking long distances because they’re easy to slip on and off while walking around a store or just about anywhere else.
When Should You Buy A New Pair Of Shoes?
1. When You Feel Pain
Pain is the best indicator that something isn’t right with your shoes, so if you experience pain in your feet, ankles or knees, have an expert take a look at your shoes to see if they are the source of the problem.
2. When You’re Trying To Find Comfortable Shoes
If you’re putting on uncomfortable shoes and taking them off again ten minutes later, it’s probably time to buy new ones that will actually hold up for more than a few minutes at a time without making you wince with every step.
3. When They Start Falling Apart
Shoes can’t last forever, and they will start falling apart after a certain amount of use. Going over the life of a shoe by a few months or even a few years might seem like plenty to some people, but if your shoes are starting to fall apart, it’s time to let them go and buy something new.
4. When They Aren’t Protecting You Anymore
Shoes are meant to keep you safe and stable on your feet, but if you find that your shoes aren’t doing what they’re supposed to be doing anymore, it might be time for replacements.
5. When They Don’t Fit Anymore
If you have grown to a new size or weight and you’re still wearing the same shoes, it might be time for a new pair that fits you better.
6. When Your Shoes Are Losing Their Shape
A shoe that starts to get out of shape on you is a shoe that really doesn’t do you much good anymore. It might be time for an intervention before your feet are at risk or your shoes are no longer doing you any good at all.
A person’s shoes are certainly worth paying attention to, and they can be very useful in a variety of situations. However, they can also be very expensive for a person who is not careful about them. Therefore, making sure that you get the right size and shape is important because it will protect them as well as your own feet while you are wearing them out and about.
It makes sense to take your shoes seriously as well because they can end up being expensive if you do not do everything you need to do with them in order to make sure that everything works out for you. Taking care of your shoes is important because it will help them last longer and keep you from having to pay too much money at once or too often for new ones.