Convenience and comfort are a top priority when buying senior home care products and clothing for older loved ones. A pair of good shoes can benefit seniors who need proper support when walking around to help them avoid injury from accidents or falls, which sometimes result from the fatigue of the muscles in the legs.
Special walking shoes can help improve stability for those who have sore and painful feet, and those who suffer from balance issues due to swelling or other reasons. To help you find the perfect pair that suits all needs, we have rounded up the eight best shoes for the elderly with balance problems, keeping safety and comfort in mind.
Seniors who have balance issues should opt for shoes with certain features, such as low, flat, and wide heels to ensure they maintain a close contact with the ground. A non-slip sole is especially useful during the wintertime or for slippery surfaces like tile, providing firm grip and reducing pressure on the toes and ankles. Shoes that should be avoided include flip-flops, high heels, loose-fitting footwear, and ill-fitting shoes that can aggravate foot ulcers or cause injuries.
Ideally, shoes for seniors should be easy to put on. Designs with adjustable laces or velcro straps that facilitate easy wearing and taking off are recommended. This type of footwear provides the required room and space for comfortable walking, reducing the trouble involved in bending down frequently to adjust laces.
These elderly shoes are some of the best options for those who suffer from foot pain and are looking for ways to improve balance while walking. While compiling this list, we paid attention to the variety of sizes available and considered different brands to suit a range of preferences and needs.
These Clarks Women's Sillian Bella Mary Jane have a heel height of 1.35 inches. It comes in four different colors with a cushioned footbed for excellent arch support. It is suited for elderly women looking for stable and dressy shoes that can be worn with and without socks.
These balance walking shoes from Sketchers have a supportive footbed that is suitable for flat feet. They are lightweight slip-on shoes with a high rebound insole that aims to reduce arch pain and can easily accommodate swollen feet.
These comfortable shoes from Easy Spirit are easy to slip on and off and provide great arch support for seniors. They are a suitable option for those looking for a casual shoe or a more formal pair depending on the colorway you choose.
| Pros | Cons |
| Available in leather, mesh, and suede | Some sizing issues |
| Rubber sole has excellent traction | Hollow heel may make sounds |
| Sock liner is removable | Quality could be improved |
A men's velcro shoe that is suitable for those with balance problems, the Avi-Union II is ideal for all-day comfort and walking on slippery surfaces. The hook-and-loop strap is ideal for seniors who have arthritis or those who have difficulty tying shoelaces.
| Pros | Cons |
| Removable memory foam sock liner | May not be that breathable |
| Dual strap velcro closure | Sizing may be inconsistent |
| Secure hook and loop closure | Could be more durable |
Suitable for diabetics, these Dr. Scholl's sneakers have a roomy toe box and handy velcro straps that can be used to adjust the width of the shoe. The Air-Pillo gel insoles add comfort while the thick rubber outsole provides greater stability.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable price | Soles can be improved |
| Good walking shoe | Gel pad may not last long |
| Faux leather upper | Tongue could be thicker |
This 100% leather shoe comes with a thickly padded tongue and a moisture-wicking mesh lining for maximum comfort. The durable rubber outsole ensures durability and longevity, while the loafer style means that seniors can wear it with slacks or jeans.
| Pros | Cons |
| Can be used for formal occasions | Not an option for those looking for athletic shoes |
| Good quality shoes for elderly men | May be slippery for some people |
| Convenient slip-on shoes | Sizing may run large |
With a large number of positive reviews, the Sketchers Men's Go Walk shoes are one of the best lightweight shoes on the market. With a shoe weight of only 7.2 oz. in a men's size 9, it provides high-rebound cushioning for heavier seniors and those with back problems.
| Pros | Cons |
| Air-cooled insole for comfort | May be hard to put on for wider feet |
| Machine washable | May wear out over time |
| Top pull-on loop for easy wear | Sizing may be inconsistent |
One of the best options for arch support, the Dansko Women's Kane mule can help correct a shuffling gait by providing greater stability. With a heel height of 1.5 inches, it is ideal for long walks. While they are very durable, they may not be the most breathable option.
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy to clean | Lacks breathability |
| Removable EVA footbed | May need to be worn with socks |
| Comes in plenty of colors | Lacks wide fit options |
When choosing the best walking shoes for seniors who struggle with balance, here are some pros and cons to consider:
| Pros | Cons |
| Orthopedic shoes can reduce foot pain. | Ill-fitting shoes can be dangerous. |
| Velcro shoes are easily customizable in terms of fit. | Soles can wear down over time. |
| The right shoes can prevent falls on wet surfaces. | The right shoe is dependent on foot shape. |
| A padded collar can prevent blisters in ankle and tongue areas. | A lightweight shoe may not be suitable for all environments. |
| A walking shoe can help seniors stay active. | Some shoes don't accommodate custom orthotics. |
When choosing shoes for elderly people with balance problems, keep the following advice in mind. While it might be tempting to opt for a more affordable choice, more often than not, these pairs wear out easily due to the quality of materials used.
Seniors with wide feet may also need extra width for better comfort, which ensures less pressure on the toes. Lightweight footwear with better grip and shock absorption can also reduce pain associated with heavier shoes. However, take note that lightweight walking shoes may wear out more often than their heavier counterparts and may require replacement more frequently.
Lastly, make it a point to avoid ill-fitting or loose-fitting shoes to reduce the risk of falls and discomfort for seniors, especially during exercise. Slippers with breathable material and those with a velcro strap are ideal for more physically active older adults, as they prevent ankles from swelling and provide the right amount of grip on any surface.
Quick Guide- Best Foot Warmers For Elderly Folks
To aid in your choice of purchasing, here are some common questions and answers about balance shoes:
The ideal footwear to prevent falls for the elderly must have low heels and firm grippy soles. They should also be the right size and width for the feet with enough cushioning to prevent discomfort. Velcro straps can provide added security, while shoes that accommodate custom orthotics can also cater to the unique needs of seniors.
Crocs can be worn by the elderly due to their good arch support, but may not be suitable for all-day wear since they don't provide a lot of security for the heel. A more ideal option would be shoes with velcro fastenings or those with a more breathable upper to promote greater circulation, enhancing the experience.
For those who walk around 30 minutes per day or three to four hours every week, buying shoes every six months is ideal. On average, they need to be replaced after 500 miles of walking. However, this also depends on the type of terrain that is being walked on and how often the shoes are washed or cleaned, as the life of the shoes can be extended with proper care.
Overall, the best shoes for elders with balance problems are the Dansko Women's Kane Mules and the Sketchers Men's Go Walk Shoe. This is because they provide maximum comfort and durability while being easy to put on and take off, which can be useful for seniors with mobility problems.
Going hiking? Visit our article about the best hiking shoes for seniors for our recommendations.
For more health and wellness tips to make seniors' lives easier, head over to Senior Strong today!
