We all buy shoes straight off the shelf, yet our feet are all different shapes and sizes. So how do you know if your shoe is right for you, particularly as you get older when you are at a higher risk of aches, pains, having a bunion, or sustaining a fall-related injury?
According to our Healthy Feet Survey, 89 per cent of Australians haven’t had their foot professionally measured in the past 12 months, meaning they may not be wearing appropriate footwear for their feet. This should ring some alarm bells, as wearing unsafe footwear was a serious factor contributing to falls among people aged 65 and over.
When it comes to finding the right shoe for seniors, whose feet can change shape and also lose some feeling, here is what you need to be looking for in order to avoid unsafe footwear:
- A wide, shock-absorbent and non-slip sole
- A firm heel with only a slight raise
- An enclosed heel and forefoot
- A firm and comfortable fit
- No areas of redness or rubbing after wear
What Shoes Should Seniors Be Avoiding?
- Slippers outside of the house – slippers usually have smooth soles and are poorly fitting, making you slip and shuffle. If you can’t avoid slippers, choose ones that are firm over your heel and have a non-slip sole
- Heels, thongs or open-toed sandals – you should generally avoid footwear that doesn’t have secure fastenings to prevent your feet from slipping and falling out
In addition to experiencing changes in your muscle strength, foot posture, nerve sensation, balance and gait during ageing, many elderly Australians also present foot conditions such as toe deformities or bunions.
It is always good practice to get your feet measured properly as they may have changed since your last fitting. Your local My FootDr podiatrist can determine the right shoe for you to ensure there are no hurdles when it comes to your mobility, safety and independence.
Our goal is to help you avoid becoming a falls statistic. Book your appointment with your My FootDr podiatrist by calling 1800 FOOTDR or book online.
Click here for more information on falls prevention for you or your loved ones.