Buying the right shoes can prevent older people falling

Falls in older people are frequent and can lead to serious fractures, joint replacements and other injuries. It can even affect their long-term mobility. Wearing the right shoes, however, can make an enormous difference, as they can provide stability and decrease the risk of falls.

What is a safe shoe?

There are certain things you should look out for in a safe shoe for older people:

1. A good back to the shoe to help with stability
2. A sole which is scored or grooved underside to stop slipping
3. A low, wide heel base to help stability
4. Cushioning for comfort
5. Laces can help keep the shoe from slipping, but are not good for arthritic fingers

You should avoid shoes which are:

1. Narrow in the heel
2. High heeled
3. With slippery soles
4. Which are too stretchy and do not provide support

How to buy shoes for older people

1. Feet tend to be largest in the afternoon, so that’s the best time to shop, to ensure you don’t buy shoes which are too tight
2. Bring any orthotics they wear regularly and their own socks
3. One foot is always slightly bigger than the other, so always try both shoes on
4. When the shoes are on, check there is still a small amount of room between the end of the big toe and the end of the shoe
5. Make sure the width is right, so toes do not get pinched and sore
6. When the shoe is on, it should not be really easy to pull it straight off. If it is it’s too big
7. Make sure the heel support is good and the soles have good grip
8. Make sure the heel is wide enough
9. Check the tongue is padded and not difficult to manage, as some get in the way when putting them on
10. Leather is a good material, as it stretches with the foot naturally

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