For the elderly with balance problems, finding the right footwear and supportive garments can be a challenge. Poorly fitting shoes can cause discomfort and slips and falls. For seniors shopping for the best shoes for their needs, lightweight shoes, a velcro closure, a flexible leather upper, and a well-padded collar can offer better comfort and an adjustable fit.
Generally speaking, elderly individuals should avoid high heels when it comes to choosing walking shoes. In 2019, the emergency department recorded 3 million visits for older adult falls, so the elderly with balance problems should look for a lightweight shoe that fits their needs.
The best walking shoes for elderly people have shock absorption to distribute the shock of your foot hitting the ground, reducing the stress on your hips and back. Having comfortable shoes can help increase your levels of physical activity, preventing and managing noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancerA disease in which some of the body's cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the bod..., and diabetesA chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose), requiring ongoing....
Custom orthotics can relieve pressure and foot pain for some seniors, reducing balance problems. These are well suited for seniors who have unique needs due to diabetes or arthritisAn inflammation of the joints that causes pain and stiffness and is more common in older adults.. Moreover, elderly shoes that accommodate custom sole inserts can be a useful investment for most seniors.
Slip-on shoes are good for elderly people since they don't come with laces that can cause trips and falls. Unlike laces that can be difficult to tie for those with mobility shoes, slip-on types can make it easy to get your foot in and out of the shoe, especially if your feet tend to swell.
For those looking for a versatile fit, velcro shoes often have a comfortable padded collar and can be used during most senior activities. They are very easy to fasten and adjust, and a dual strap velcro closure, in particular, can help your foot stay firmly on your shoe. They also come in a lot of colors and styles and have a breathable mesh upper which can be useful for summer.
Sandals are a good alternative to high heels for seniors. Look for features like a rubber sole, water resistance, velcro straps, shock absorption, and a wide toe box to increase comfort and ease of wear. It's also a good idea to avoid flip-flops or open heel sandals that don't provide ankle support for seniors.
Indoor shoes for elderly people are also a good idea. Bootie slippers can provide greater ankle support compared to standard flip flop-style slippers that may be unsuitable for seniors. In the wintertime, thick sock slippers with grippers can provide added comfort compared to slippers with a rubber sole.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to choosing shoes for elderly people. However, there are a few factors to look out for as you browse in-store or online:
Choosing the right balance shoes can help seniors avoid foot pain from heavy shoes or loose-fitting shoes.
Product Name | Skechers Performance Women's Go Walk Slip-On Walking Shoe | Orthoshoes Women's Edema Shoes | MEJORMEN Women Diabetic Shoes | Propet Women's Pedwalker 3 Strap Slip On | New Balance Women's 813 V1 Hook and Loop Walking Shoe |
Shoe Size & Weight | 6-11 Regular and Wide, Light | 6-10 Regular, Light | 6-10 Regular, Medium | 6-12 Regular Wide and Extra Wide, Light | 5-13 Regular, Narrow, Wide, Extra Wide, Medium |
Heel Height | 1.25 inches | 1.5 inches | 1.5 inches | 1 inch | 1 inch |
Comfort | High | Medium | Medium | Medium | High |
Arch Support | Medium | Medium | High | Medium | High |
Traction | Medium | Medium | Medium | Low | High |
These Skechers shoes have a lightweight Resalyte cushioning, making them one of the best shoes for walking. The soles are very soft and bouncy and have a circular pattern to improve grip. The top part of the shoe is made of breathable synthetic material, and the toe is reinforced.
If you're looking for a lightweight shoe that can be used in the summertime, these slip-on ones are breathable and can be worn with socks and/or custom orthotics.
Pros | Cons |
Comes in plenty of colors for elderly women | Could use more grip on wet surfaces |
Slip on shoes have a flexible rubber sole | Back loops may be uncomfortable |
Lightweight and breathable | Quality of newer pairs and older pairs may be different |
The velcro strap on the forefoot makes this walking shoe highly adjustable, accommodating any changes in the degree of foot swelling. These shoes also have extra width and depth for those with swollen feet, bunions, plantar fasciitis, and other conditions that make it difficult to find appropriate footwear.
The rubber outsole has an air cushion to improve comfort along with the padded collar.
Pros | Cons |
Good walking shoes at an affordable price | The return policy could be improved |
Velcro straps secure the foot in place | Quality may be lacking compared to other elderly shoes |
Removable insole can accommodate custom orthotics | Sizing may be inconsistent depending on your foot shape |
The uniquely adjustable closures mean that you can easily adjust the width of the shoe with the velcro straps. It is very easy to put on and take off, designed to provide personalized comfort for diabetics and those who experience swollen feet. Unlike other shoes for the elderly, it comes with extra insoles for better arch support in 3mm and 5mm widths to help achieve a customized fit.
Pros | Cons |
Roomy toe box helps accommodate wide feet | Sizing may be inconsistent |
Comes with extra removable foam inserts | Breathable mesh could be improved |
Velcro strap allows for customizable fit for swollen feet | May not be suitable shoes for the elderly with narrow feet |
The hook and loop closure on this stylish walking shoe makes it easy to put on and take off for seniors. The twin removable insoles provide maximum customization and can be removed to accommodate orthotics. The neoprene vamp upper provides some wiggle room for toes, while the low platform and heel provide greater stability when walking.
Pros | Cons |
Velcro shoe is suitable for indoor and outdoor use | Only comes in one color |
Lightweight shoes are comfortable for diabetics | May not be suitable as athletic shoes |
Hook and loop closure can accommodate high arches | Build quality could be improved in relation to cost |
This athletic walking shoe comes with a sturdy rubber sole and dual strap velcro closure for extra support. The hook and loop strap provides a custom fit without laces, while the soft padded collar makes it one of the best walking shoes for seniors. It has a synthetic leather upper that is easy to clean and may be eligible for MedicareA federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older, certain younger people with disab... reimbursement for qualified seniors.
Pros | Cons |
Suitable for those with high arches | Only comes in 3 different colors |
Good shock absorption | Vinyl leather could be more breathable |
Durable rubber outsole makes it one of the best shoes for walking or athletic use | Seam across toes may cause discomfort |
When choosing shoes for elderly people, here are some things you should keep in mind.
Old people may need to wear shoes in their homes to minimize the risk of falling. Ideally, low-heeled shoes with slip-resistant soles are a safe choice.
The elderly should avoid loose slippers with no back. Slippers with a back strap are slip-resistant and fit well to help reduce slips and falls. Check out our article to know more about the best slippers for elderly women.
While Crocs may be a good option for short-term wear and good arch support, they are not proper footwear for long-term daily use since they lack heel support.
The elderly with balance problems should consider investing in proper footwear. Generally, flip flops should be avoided, while shoes with velcro straps, a sturdy rubber outsole, and a cushioned insole are some good choices for a walking shoe.
Read on to learn more about the top adaptive clothing options for senior women on Senior Strong today!