Are older people aware that inappropriate footwear may cause fall? Do you know the features of safe footwear?
Falls in older adults are common and may result in serious injuries. Although there are many causes, trip-related falls are often linked to inappropriate footwear.
Inappropriate footwear refers to footwear with unsafe features and footwear of incorrect size. Previous studies indicated that many falls were associated with shoes with one or more of these features: too big, poor grip, poor support, and no fastening.
For convenience, some people prefer to wear slippers or socks without shoes or go barefoot indoors. Unfortunately, these habits are also associated with fall incidences.
Recent Irish study on elderly’s footwear
An investigation was carried out at an Irish hospital’s geriatric daycare centre to find out the habitual footwear of old folks. The researchers recruited 111 patients and recorded measurements of their feet, shoe size, shoe type and their preferred footwear at home.
The findings were astounding: “72% of participants were wearing footwear that did not fit correctly on both feet, 90% had shoes with smooth, partly worn or fully worn sole treading, and 67% reported wearing slippers at home.”
The authors remarked, “Most participants were wearing footwear that could be described as inappropriate as it was either ill-fitting or had unsafe features. We found a high number of older people to be wearing footwear larger than recommended on both feet. This is consistent with previous studies in older populations. This may put these individuals at risk of trip-related falls. Furthermore, the majority of participants were wearing footwear with several unsafe features …”
Although the sample of this study is quite small and the findings are not necessarily representative of the larger population, it does give us a glimpse of the common habits of some older people. And the potential problems that may arise. One pertinent point that the paper has pointed out is:
“The very high rate of ill-fitting footwear identified in this population is striking both because they are a group that would be considered at high risk of falls and other adverse events, and also because they are a group that has contact with healthcare professionals and should be in receipt of advice from doctors, physiotherapists and occupational therapists.”
Safe footwear is shoes that prevent you from falling
What is safe footwear?
According to experts, the best shoes for seniors should have the following features:
- Slip-resistance sole
- Secure and adjustable fastenings, for example, Velcro, shoe laces and buckles
- Supported heel-collar
- Low heel height
- Bevelled heel
- The thin and firm midsole
You may find the following guideline helpful when shopping for safe footwear.