Preventing Falls, Improving Balance
Good shoes can give you the grounding you need to help with balance and also help prevent a fall.
Every year, more than 1 in 3 older people will have a fall, and the likelihood of a severe injury increases with age.
Falls can happen to everyone, but one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent a fall is to change the type of shoes you wear.
Seniors are often not wearing the right shoes which can cause problems with balance. Share on XYour feet are like reference points on a map, and without good mobility, strength and grounding you may find yourself heading in the wrong direction.
Good shoes can help keep older people grounded.
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What to look for in a good shoe:
Active seniors need to choose the right shoe for the job. They should be lightweight, secure on the feet, and comfortable.
If you’re of mature age, here are some questions you can ask yourself to check if shoes are right for you:
- Do the shoes fit well? Your shoes should be secure around your heels, and have space at the end of your toes
- Are they enclosed and comfortable? Purchase shoes when your feet are feeling their worst – late in the afternoon. Make sure they’re enclosed and comfortable.
- Do they bend at the ball of the foot? They need to be flexible at the ball of your foot, but rigid under your arch
- Do the shoes have a flat sole? Heel blocks, hard edges and high heels increase your risk of falling
- Do the shoes have a bit of bounce? The sole should be low and soft, giving you good feel for the ground
- You should avoid shoes that are heavy, rigid, or hard. Shoes shouldn’t have a slippery sole, and shouldn’t be able to be kicked off without untying laces or straps.
You should also avoid shoes with leather soles, or shoes with high heels.
Fashionable Shoes
Good shoes don’t have to be boring.
You can find good shoes that look good as well.
Podiatrists are dedicated to helping people choose the right shoes, and will often work with shoe companies and specialist shoe stores to make sure they’re happy.
Are your shoes safe?
If you’re unsure if your shoes are safe, speak with your podiatrist.
The podiatrists at Posture Podiatry can assess your balance, your current footwear, and help connect you with specialist shoe stores to make sure you choose the right shoes for you.
