Senior Shoe Shopping 2024: Your Complete Guide to Comfortable and Supportive Footwear

Written by Brittany Stuckless on January 1, 2024

Shopping for senior footwear can be challenging. Older people have to consider individual preferences in addition to specific foot conditions like bunions, arthritis, diabetes (swelling, neuropathy), and more. But in 2024, everyone can enjoy a wide array of shoes that encourage foot health and also look great. It’s just a simple case of knowing what to look out for!

Comfortable Shoes for Seniors: Key Features to Look For

Arch and Ankle Support

The foundation of our feet can weaken with age, leading to issues like decreased muscle strength and joint flexibility. Shoes with proper ankle support help stabilize the ankle joint, reducing the risk of sprains and falls. Additionally, good arch support is essential to treat conditions common in seniors, like flat feet, providing cushioning and encouraging a better gait.

Easy to Put On

Seniors struggling with arthritis, edema, balance issues and instability, mild cognitive impairment, and other pain-related mobility issues need shoes that are easy to put on. When shopping, keep your eyes peeled for the following:

Slip-on shoes and sneakers
Shoes made with flexible fabric
Zipper shoes
Orthopedic shoes

Avoid high heels (too unstable), shoes with poor traction and slippery soles (can lead to slips and falls), and pointed-toe shoes (poor environment for bunions).

Mobility Accommodation

Many older people need shoes that adapt to ankle instability, foot swelling, foot pain and leg pain. Moreover, stability and motion control sneakers can prevent injuries that may arise due to the unpredictability and vulnerability of daily movement. These shoes typically feature a firm and supportive midsole that helps control excessive foot motion.

Best Senior Footwear 2024

Any helpful senior shoe shopping guide should include some examples of supportive footwear to try. Let’s take a look at some shoe recommendations that benefit foot health for seniors!

APEX X-Last Double Strap Walker X920M

APEX X-Last Double Strap Walker X920M. Source: APEX

This motion-control shoe is easy to put on and comes with secure fasteners and stabilizing technology in the rear foot and ankle. It also features a wide toe box, something that can help older people struggling with bunion and hammertoe pain. The extra depth can also help accommodate swelling.

ASICS Gel-Nimbus

This shoe provides extra cushioning, making it a good choice for seniors struggling with osteoarthritis and sensitive feet. It’s a great choice for performing low-impact exercises and for walking.

Portofino Velcro Strap Winter Boot

An excellent option for surviving the winter, this boot is highly insulated, water resistant and the solid grip helps prevent slips and trips. The velcro strap allows for a cozy fit and makes it easy to put on and take off, and the fur lining is a stylish finishing touch.

Portofino Indoor Slipper

Orthopedic footwear does not just include orthopaedic shoes. These days, there are several orthopaedic slippers on the market that seniors can wear comfortably at home. This slipper also comes with a removable insole that can be replaced with custom orthotics or over-the-counter inserts.

Looking for More Senior Shoe Shopping Guidance?

Did you know that you can stop by Feet First Clinic during our business hours and browse our shoe collection without an appointment? One of our staff members can help you select the perfect pair of high-quality shoes for your needs. To take your foot health to new heights, be sure to schedule an appointment with one of our chiropodists! Call us at (416) 769-3338 or book an appointment online!

About Author: Brittany Stuckless

Brittany holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from Memorial University of Newfoundland. With a diverse background in journalism and marketing, she got her start as a freelance content writer. She currently works as a Marketing Assistant at Real Food for Real Kids in addition to her role as a writer at Feet First Clinic. Previously, Brittany has been a journalist for the Ontario Learning Development Foundation and Immigrant Muse magazine, and an Administrative and Marketing Assistant at Evolve Chiropractic and Physiotherapy. Originally from Newfoundland, she has lived in Toronto since 2014.

Learn more about Brittany Stuckless

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September 9, 2024

Natural Remedies for Foot Pain: Home Treatments That Work

Sometimes, your feet need a little extra TLC, especially after long days or if you’re struggling with a painful foot condition. While a visit to your local foot clinic is always a good idea, remembering some natural remedies for foot pain can be a lifesaver when you need relief at home. Exercises, Stretches and Yoga Foot pain relief exercises are excellent for addressing discomfort and promoting overall foot health. On top of being effective, they are a holistic, natural foot care remedy. The best stretches and exercises target the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the feet, helping to improve flexibility, strengthen weak areas, and increase circulation. When you practice these at home, you are doing your part to manage common issues like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, bunions, osteoarthritis, general muscle soreness, and much more. Additionally, they are cost-effective (no expensive gym equipment required!) and designed to accommodate people with disabilities (many feature modifications). Here are some resources (keep in mind you can often mix and match exercises): Exercises for top of the foot pain. Exercises for plantar fasciitis. Exercises for bunions. Exercises for arthritis part 1 and part 2. Exercises for diabetes. Incorporating yoga into your routine is another effective approach to soothing foot pain. Yoga poses that focus on stretching and strengthening the feet, such as the Downward Dog and Warrior, not only provide relief from current pain but also help prevent future issues by improving foot alignment and balance. Read about the best yoga exercises for your feet here. Foot Bath A long bath at the end of a hard day is one of life’s greatest gifts. But a targeted foot bath is also one of the best natural remedies for foot pain. One of the key natural ingredients to use in your bath is epsom salt (it’s nothing like the salt you use for cooking!). Research suggests it relieves muscle cramping, prevents blood clots, and boosts nerve function. Foot soaks for purchase at our Toronto foot clinic may also help. Gehwol Fusskraft Herbal Foot Bath has several ingredients to soothe tired achy muscles. Click here to inquire! Be sure to warm water in your foot bath, as opposed to hot water. Water that is too hot can dry out your skin and cause discomfort during the foot bath. Foot Massages and Essential Oils A DIY foot massage is one of the best foot pain management tips, and it’s a treatment you can do 100% from home. Using essential oils with your massage is a herbal remedy for foot pain you can try. Some studies show that a mix of geranium, lavender, bergamot, tea tree, and eucalyptus essential oils helped reduce pain in people with diabetic neuropathy. Side note: It’s a common misconception neuropathy only causes foot numbness; it can also lead to sharp pains in the feet. These oils may also help with other foot conditions! Use a carrier oil, preferably coconut oil, and mix it with the essential oils for the best results. Learn how to perform a foot massage here.

August 26, 2024

Children’s Foot Development: Developmental Milestones and Concerns

As children’s foot development takes its first steps, it’s common to encounter a few bumps along the way. From in-toeing to Sever’s disease, these growing pains are part of the journey as little ones explore the world with developing feet. Let’s take a look at what foot conditions might correspond with your child’s age. Ages 1-3: In-Toeing and Toe-Walking Troublesome toes occurring during the “terrible twos” can be concerning. But these quirky walking patterns are totally normal developmental milestones for children's foot development. No cause for alarm or invasive treatment! In-toeing, also known as pigeon-toeing, is when a child's feet turn inward instead of pointing straight ahead while walking. Toe walking is when a child walks on the balls of their feet with their heels off the ground. Up to Ages 3-4: Flat Feet Children around this age will have pen planus, also known as fallen arches or flat feet. This is when the entire sole of their foot contacts the ground while standing and walking. Traditional children's foot development is at play here, as arches in children's feet develop around age 6. No treatment is generally needed for flat feet before this point, unless your child’s flat feet persist as they age, in which case you may want to consider custom orthotics, stability shoes and other treatments for flat feet. 5+ Years Old: Blisters As kids get older, gain a sense of independence and participate in more physical extracurricular activities and outdoor play, they may start to develop skin conditions on their feet. Enter: blisters. These are a pretty common condition that’s usually harmless, but can painful and bothersome for kids when they walk. Blisters form as a result of excessive friction between shoes and the foot’s skin. Read here to learn the best ways of preventing foot problems like blisters and how to choose the right shoes for children! Puberty and Growth Spurts: Sever’s Disease Did you know that the concept "growing pains" in children is not what most people think it is? While kids may experience pain as they grow, the pain itself is not caused by growing. But what can cause pain for kids going through puberty is something called Sever’s Disease, which is like a kid’s-only version of injuries like plantar fasciitis, Achille’s tendonitis and heel spurs. Sever's disease kicks in when a growing heel gets overworked, causing inflammation. It leads to sharp heel pain, especially when kids are on the move, like during sports and playtime! Kids between 9 and 14 are the most vulnerable. Solid foot care for kids can help offset Sever’s disease. Try the RICE method: rest, ice, compression and elevation. You should also buy your child supportive footwear to ease the strain on the heel. Avoiding high-impact activities can also help speed up recovery.

August 19, 2024

Foot Care for Seniors: Common Issues and Maintenance Strategies

Foot care for seniors is a vital aspect of maintaining overall health and mobility. As we age, our feet undergo changes that can lead to various problems, making it essential to prioritize foot health. This article will explore common foot problems in older adults and offer practical foot care tips for the elderly to help maintain mobility and prevent discomfort as much as possible. Understanding Aging Adults' Foot Health Aging adults' foot health often deteriorates due to factors such as reduced blood circulation, thinning skin, and the natural wear and tear on joints and muscles. These changes can lead to an increased risk of developing foot issues, which can severely impact mobility and quality of life. Common Foot Problems in Older Adults Several common foot problems in older adults can arise as a result of aging: Plantar Fasciitis Decades wearing the wrong shoes for your feet = feeling the damage and heel pain when you get older. Seniors are also vulnerable to plantar fasciitis if they have balance and mobility challenges, as these affect the natural gait pattern. In other words, as older adults struggle with movement, they might walk differently, which can put extra stress on their feet and lead to heel pain. Lastly, poor blood circulation means less ability to recover from “micro injuries,” which is essentially what plantar fasciitis is. Bunions Bothersome bunions affect seniors more than younger adults. The toes spread out more due to natural aging-related foot changes, placing pressure on the wrong areas. Bunions can also tend to form and worsen gradually over time, meaning seniors will feel their full effects. Dry Skin Skin aging doesn't just affect our face; it affects our feet too! As we age, the processes that help our feet stay moisturized, namely the production of natural oils and cell renewal, slow down. This leads to dry, flaky skin on the feet. Dry skin is on the feet is not just a cosmetic concern; it makes the feet more prone to developing many problems like itching, cracked heels, corns and calluses. Corns and Calluses Not only does our skin get dryer as we age, it also gets thinner. This makes the feet more prone to developing corns and calluses. Corns and calluses are caused by friction, and are two of the most common skin problems affecting seniors. When the skin thins, the skin forms calluses and corns more quickly in order to protect itself. This issue is compounded for older adults who have been wearing ill-fitting shoes for years Arthritis Osteoarthritis (also referred to as degenerative joint disease) is a form of arthritis typically associated with aging. It is caused by cumulative wear-and-tear on the joints. Over time, the protective lining around the joints wears down, resulting in excessive rubbing and grinding between joints. Foot Care Tips for the Elderly Foot care for seniors entails a proactive approach. Here are our top tips for maintaining foot health as you age: Regular Foot Inspections and Hygiene Our number-one foot care tip for older adults is to get regular medical pedicures with a chiropodist. This is especially helpful for seniors who have difficulty bending or trimming their own toenails. A licensed Toronto chiropodist can properly trim and file your toenails, remove corns and calluses, and address any other common foot problems in older adults. A foot specialist will also inspect and keep an your feet for any signs of redness, swelling, cuts, or sores that could indicate a worsening skin issue. Our Toronto chiropodists will also provide expert foot care advice for your at-home maintenance. At-Home Foot Care: Moisturizing, Hygiene and Inspections Foot care for seniors should involve moisturizing daily with a foot cream in order to keep the skin on the feet strong and firm. This will also help reduce callus and corn buildup. At-home foot care for seniors also involves practicing good hygiene, including washing feet daily and keeping your toenails trimmed. This is essential to prevent infections and other complications. Proper Footwear and Medical Devices Footwear plays a significant role in senior foot care. Shoes should provide adequate support, have a wide toe box to prevent crowding, and offer cushioning for shock absorption. Orthotic inserts can also be beneficial for those with specific foot conditions or discomfort, especially plantar fasciitis. There are also products like silicone toe separators, bunion aligners, and bunion splints worth trying. Maintaining Foot Mobility and Stability Regular exercise and fall prevention strategies can keep the muscles and joints in the feet strong and flexible. Simple exercises like toe stretches, ankle circles, and calf raises can improve circulation and maintain range of motion. A targeted approach is ideal, and you can memorize foot exercises and stretches designed for your condition or age, such as routines for bunions, arthritis part one and two, plantar fasciitis, and women over 65. Many of these exercises help with more than one condition!

August 12, 2024

Managing Bunions: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Tips for Relief

Dealing with bunions can be a pain—literally. For those managing bunions, finding effective solutions can greatly improve quality of life. Let's dive into various bunion treatment options and explore lifestyle tips that can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further issues. Bunion Treatment Options: Finding What Works for You When it comes to managing bunions, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Remember, they are bony protrusions and can vary in pain level and size. While they can occur in both men and women, they are most common in women. Non-surgical bunion treatment is often the first line of defense. Non-Surgical Bunion Treatment Ill-fitting and unsupportive footwear - particularly narrow shoes and high heels - is one of the most common causes of bunions. A chiropodist can suggest footwear for bunions that provide ample toe space and cushioning. They'll help you discover fashionable footwear for sensitive feet from your local Toronto foot clinic. Additionally, they can do a biomechanical assessment to determine if custom orthotics can help manage the bunion's progression and reduce your pain. A chiropodist can also recommend bunion cushioning techniques and products, such as: Silicone toe separators Bunion aligners Rigid, yet walkable, bunion splints These non-invasive measures can help reduce pressure on the affected area and offer bunion pain relief. Lifestyle Tips For Bunion Relief and Preventing Bunion Progression As with any foot condition, lifestyle changes go a long way! Implement simple bunion exercises into your routine to strengthen the muscles around the joint. To give it your best shot, refer to these 5 simple exercises for bunions! It is also strongly recommended that you avoid high heels. If you have a special event, visit your local foot clinic to talk about comfortable heel and wedges you may be able to wear, for a limited amount of time. In addition, avoid activities that put excessive pressure on your feet, such as long periods of standing on hard surfaces. You can try beginner-level, low-impact yoga to keep moving, but make sure it isn't too intense for your feet. Surgical Solutions In severe situations, bunion surgery from a podiatrist or orthopaedic surgeon can offer significant relief. Surgery realigns the toe joint, providing a long-term solution and eliminating the need to accommodate the bunion at all times. However, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if surgery is the right step for you. Most of the time, surgery is only an option for severe bunions as it can be a lengthy and inconvenient process for you. In addition, there's no guarantee the bunion will not return: some studies indicate a reoccurence rate of up to 25% after bunion surgery. It's important to note that bunion surgery alone isn't going to permanently get rid of your bunions: you still need to do non-surgical bunion treatment options after surgery to prevent reoccurence, namely: Wear proper fitting footwear and avoid high heels Strengthen and condition the muscles in your feet and ankles Address any underlying biomechanical issues to reduce pressure and strain on the affected joint.

August 8, 2024

Benefits of Flexible Toes

When we think about flexibility, our toes might not be the first body part that comes to mind. One may think that because they're so small, you can get away with neglecting them. However, our toes are actually part of our entire body's foundation. Flexible toes protect us from many short—and long-term foot conditions and can enhance our quality of life. Let's explore the benefits of having flexible toes, including improved balance, fewer foot problems, and increased toe functionality. Five benefits of flexible toes 1. Improved balance and stability Flexible toes contribute to better balance and stability. When your toes can move and spread naturally, they can adjust to uneven surfaces and provide a broader support base, enhancing overall stability while walking, running, or standing. 2. Fewer foot problems Maintaining flexibility in your toes can help prevent common foot problems associated with stiffness in your toes. For example, a limited range of motion in your feet can indicate bunions, hammertoes, osteoarthritis, hallux rigidus, and plantar fasciitis early. Hallux rigidus and hallux limitus translate to "rigid" and "limited," a direct sign of stiff toes. In addition, flexible toes are less likely to become cramped or develop abnormal positions that can lead to discomfort and pain. Greater flexibility also means your muscle groups will work in balance, whereas stiff toes can overstress particular parts of your feet when they compensate for the stiffness. You may also benefit from a reduced risk of one-time acute injuries like turf toe. With greater flexibility and range of motion, your toes can safely extend to positions they would not be able to if they weren't flexible. 3. Better proprioception Proprioception is the body's ability to sense its position and movement in space. Flexible toes contribute to better proprioception in the feet, allowing for improved feedback to the brain about the terrain you're walking on, which aids in maintaining balance and preventing injuries. 4. Greater toe functionality Flexible toes can better perform their natural functions, such as gripping the ground while walking or running. A greater range of motion helps propel you forward and reduces strain on other parts of the foot. Regular toe exercises can also increase blood flow to your toes, reducing swelling and inflammation. 5. Reduced risk of falls Maintaining flexibility in your toes can reduce the risk of falls, especially among older adults. Flexible toes help adapt to sudden shifts in weight distribution and uneven surfaces, decreasing the likelihood of tripping or losing balance.

July 29, 2024

Fall Prevention Strategies for Older Adults: Improving Balance and Stability

If you’re a senior with a foot condition like plantar fasciitis, bunions, arthritis, you may worry around-the-clock worry about falling and hurting yourself. After all, these conditions weaken your feet and affect your gait. While this is a valid concern, fall prevention for older adults is achievable with a little diligence. Keep reading to learn everything there is to know about fall prevention for older adults, including elderly balance training, stability exercises and more. Enhancing Stability in Older Adults One of the best ways to prevent falls in the older population is equipping oneself with a low-impact stability exercise routine. Studies note that focusing on stability in the lower extremities (your legs, ankles and feet) lowers injury rates. Exercises for foot stability are designed to set your feet up for success. This means helping your feet maintain a balanced position for longer periods and coordinating your muscles, bones, joints and ligaments to provide a solid base of support. Here are three simple exercises you can master today: Calf Raise Stand up straight while placing your hands on a countertop, the back of a chair, or wall for balance support. Plant your feet firmly on the floor Raise your heels and calves slowly upwards as you shift your weight toward the ball of your foot Hold until you feel your calves working, and then slowly set your heels back down. Repeat ten times if comfortable. Pro Tip: If you feel comfortable enough, you can do this exercise with just your body weight (i.e. not holding onto anything). This will also help engage your core muscles and improve balance even more! It is still recommended to face the countertop/wall so that you can quickly stabilize yourself if you feel like you are losing balance. Towel Tug Sit on the floor (or even your bed!) Keep your leg and knee straight as you loop a towel around your foot. Pull the towel towards yourself, holding for 30 seconds. Repeat with your other foot! Ankle Circles To do ankle circles, simply rotate your ankles in circular motions clockwise, and then counterclockwise (like a circle!). You can do this either seated or standing. Pro Tip: To challenge yourself even more, spell out the ABCs with your feet! This helps to improve and maintain fine motor movements in your leg muscles and feet. Improving Balance in Older Adults Poor balance can turn a simple misstep into a disaster. If your body is less able to react to situations promptly and swiftly, you could be more likely to twist or roll your ankle, or fall and injure virtually any other part of your body. In more scientific terms, musculoskeletal conditions common in the elderly can lead to ankle instability and general impairment, increasing injury risk. This all sounds scary, but no matter your age, it’s never too late to improve your balance. Here are two low-stress exercises you can do every day that don't requirement equipment or a gym membership: Heel-to-Toe Walk: Walk in a straight line, placing the heel of one foot directly in front of the toes of the other foot. Single-Leg Stands: Stand on one leg for as long as possible, gradually increasing the duration. Hold onto a chair for support if needed. Additional Tips for Preventing Falls For Seniors There is more to fall-proofing your life than exercises and stretches. Try these additional, easy-to-implement ideas: Wear shoes with thick, rubber soles and good traction. Slick, wet pavement and unstable terrain are no match for shoes that get a solid grip of the ground. Home modifications like decluttering, installing handrails and better lighting can help you avoid slips and trips. Avoid low-quality, flimsy slippers — they often have a terrible grip and are quite slippery. Instead, try high-quality orthopaedic slippers with good arch support and rubber tread. Keep track of your vision and hearing with regular specialist and doctor’s appointments. Research and shop for the best shoes for seniors in 2024 at your local Toronto foot clinic. Stay hydrated to prevent dizziness and imbalance, and eat a well-balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D for bone health. Read more about the best food for foot health. Additional Resources on Balance: Here are some great resources to learn more about fall prevention for older adults: The Science of Walking: How Foot Mechanics Impact Your Health. This article discusses the connection between your gait and your health, which also encompasses balance. High-Heel Health: Protecting Your Feet in Heels. High heels and balance are like oil and water. But you can make healthy high heel choices that don’t negatively affect your balance and pose an injury risk. Yoga for Feet: Strengthening and Flexibility Exercises. Yoga is an excellent form of exercise that improves your balance. Learn some of the best yoga exercises and find what routine works for you.

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Senior Shoe Shopping 2024: Your Complete Guide to Comfortable and Supportive Footwear

Comfortable Shoes for Seniors: Key Features to Look For

Arch and Ankle Support

Easy to Put On

Mobility Accommodation

Best Senior Footwear 2024

APEX X-Last Double Strap Walker X920M

ASICS Gel-Nimbus

Portofino Velcro Strap Winter Boot

Portofino Indoor Slipper

Looking for More Senior Shoe Shopping Guidance?

About Author: Brittany Stuckless

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Related Posts

Natural Remedies for Foot Pain: Home Treatments That Work

Children’s Foot Development: Developmental Milestones and Concerns

Foot Care for Seniors: Common Issues and Maintenance Strategies

Managing Bunions: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Tips for Relief

Benefits of Flexible Toes

Fall Prevention Strategies for Older Adults: Improving Balance and Stability

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