A pair of shoes might seem like a simple part of the daily routine, but for an aging adult, the wrong footwear can be the first domino in a chain leading to a fall, pain, and a loss of independence.
Bulky slippers, worn-out soles, and tricky fasteners can turn every step into a hazard. The right pair of adaptive shoes, however, is a powerful tool for safety and freedom. They are thoughtfully engineered to provide stability, comfort, and easy use, helping your loved one move with greater confidence and security.
Let’s step into how the proper footwear can be a foundation for a more active, independent life.
Special Shoes Can Ease Discomfort From Common Foot Conditions
Aging and common health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, or swelling can cause changes in older adults’ feet.Â
That could make putting on regular shoes difficult or wearing them uncomfortable.Â
But to maintain their health, older adults need to be as active and mobile as possible. They also need to be stable and safe while on their feet.Â
Specially designed shoes can adapt to an older adult’s needs, making them safer, more comfortable, and easier to wear independently.
We explain what to look for in an adaptive shoe, list five places to buy them, and suggest helpful shoehorns to make the task easier.
What to Look for In Adaptive Shoes
In general, adaptive shoes for seniors should have:
- Non-slip or non-skid soles to help prevent falls
- Easy open and close fastener
- Wider opening so it’s easy to get feet into shoes
- Extra padding for comfort
4 Places to Buy Adaptive Shoes for Seniors
1. Silvert’s
Silvert’s specializes in adaptive clothing and footwear. They have a great range of adaptive shoes, slippers, and socks for women and men.Â
They also have an excellent return policy because they know the family caregiver is usually buying on behalf of an older adult.
2. Buck & Buck
Buck & Buck is another well-known retailer of adaptive clothing and shoes.
Their customer service is friendly and helpful, and they also have a good return policy.
3. Nike Flyease
Nike created a sneaker line, Nike Flyease, inspired by a young man with cerebral palsy.
The Flyease line is designed to be easy to get on and off with one hand. That allows people with disabilities to put on and take off their shoes independently.
4. New Hands-Free, Step-In Shoe Designs
Several brands have introduced hands-free, step-in shoes that make it easy to put on shoes without bending over or tying laces. They’re available in a variety of styles and colors.
5. Zappos Adaptive
The major online shoe retailer Zappos now has an adaptive shoe section.Â
They’re famous for their fast, free delivery, excellent customer service, and free return policy.
Shoehorns Can Be a Big Help
Sometimes, bending over to put on shoes is half the battle.
These sturdy, long shoehorns make it easier and safer for older adults to put on their shoes.
Final Thoughts on Adaptive Shoes for Seniors
Investing in adaptive shoes is an investment in your loved one’s safety, comfort, and continued independence. It’s a simple yet profoundly impactful change that supports their stability, reduces pain, and empowers them to stay active and engaged with the world.
By choosing footwear that prioritizes their unique needs, you’re not just buying shoes; you’re providing a daily dose of confidence and care with every step they take. Help them put their best foot forward toward a more secure and mobile future.
Recommended for you:
- 10 Reasons Why Seniors Walk With a Shuffling Gait
- 8 Arthritis Dressing Tips Make Life Easier for Seniors
- Increase Senior Independence with This Fall Risk Checklist
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About the Author
Connie is the founder of DailyCaring.com and was a hands-on caregiver for her grandmother for 20 years. (Grandma made it to 101 years old!) She knows how challenging, overwhelming, and all-consuming caring for an older adult can be. She also understands the importance of support, especially in the form of practical solutions, valuable resources, and self-care tips.
Basically looking for a shoe for my mother that’s like 7 1/2 EE , That’s why from the front of the shoe toe area back to the heel, the whole shoe needs to be why most say they’re white and they’re only wide and the tow I need one that’s consistent all the way back to the heel, thanks
We hope you’re able to find a show that works well for your mother at the retailer websites linked above.
Do you have any pictures of the bottoms of the shoes? My mother needs something so she doesn’t trip on the carpet. So I’m looking for a different kind of rubber then sneakers have. Do you have anything like that ? Thank you
We don’t sell any products, so it would be best to directly contact the retailer to get more information about any shoes you’re interested in. I’m sure they could make some recommendations for shoes that would suit your mother’s needs.