People’s feet alter as they get older, which might impact how well their shoes fit. For example, as you age, your skin thins and you lose fat padding on the bottom of your feet, so you may want more cushioning in your shoes to keep comfortable. Your joints stiffen as well, and your arches flatten. Furthermore, when tendons and ligaments weaken, your feet tend to stretch out more, so you may require a larger or wider shoe than usual. If you have aging parents, you may want to find out more about footwear that can support their mobility.
Furthermore, illnesses such as arthritis and diabetes might cause your feet or ankles to swell, necessitating the usage of shoes with adjustable apertures and closures that can suit your changing size. Because arthritis can make tying laces uncomfortable, Velcro shoes for seniors may be an excellent alternative.
Frequent Foot Problems
- Corns and callouses: Hardened areas of skin that form as a consequence of frequent friction or pressure.
- Bunions: Bony lumps that form at the base of the big toe joint, causing the joint to stick outwards.
- Fallen arches are a condition in which the tendon that supports the foot arch fails, allowing the entire foot to make contact with the ground (something that can lead to knee and back pain)
- Hammertoe: A toe joint malformation that causes the toe to curl downwards rather than point forward.
- Plantar fasciitis (foot pain): Inflammation of a band of tissue at the bottom of the foot, causing heel discomfort, especially in the morning.
The good news is that choosing the right footwear may frequently alleviate the pain and suffering associated with these issues.
What to Look for in Footwear for Your Loved Parents
Shoes that correctly support the feet allow the foot muscles to work less, resulting in fewer injuries. Here are some characteristics to look for in senior footwear:
- A non-slip sole is vital for stability and preventing falls. People with Parkinson’s disease, on the other hand, may wish to seek shoes with smooth bottoms that can tolerate a shuffling walk.
- Closures without laces, such as Velcro straps: Flip-flops and other non-anchored shoes can easily fall off the feet and cause your parents to tumble. Many seniors prefer that their shoes stay securely on their feet without requiring them to bend down and fumble with laces. Velcro shoes for older women and men are more easily fastened and available in a variety of designs.
- A wide mouth: A broader opening makes getting the foot into and out of the shoe simpler, especially if the feet swell. If your parents use compression socks, ensure sure the shoe has enough room to accommodate them.
- Sufficient padding: Cushioning absorbs and distributes the stress of the foot striking the ground, lessening the strain on the hips and back. If your parents have a habit of scuffing their feet against objects, you might choose a shoe with additional cushioning in the upper part that encloses the foot for them.
Advice for Buying Shoes
You don’t want to squander money on shoes that don’t fit well. Follow these suggestions to guarantee that you obtain what you need for your parents.
- Consider the function of your shoes.
- Shop online but buy in-store.
- Go shopping later in the afternoon.
- Put them on and take a walk.
- Examine the fit.
The appropriate shoes can also help your parents maintain balance, lower the chance of falling, avoid knee and back issues, and encourage them to be physically active.
