Crofton Office

1657 Crofton Blvd, Suite 201

Crofton, MD 21114

(410) 721-4505

(410) 721-2394

Woodbridge Office

14010 Smoketown Rd., Suite 103

Woodbridge, VA 22192

(703) 583-5959

(703) 890-4970

Chantilly Office

3914 Centreville Road, Suite 200

Chantilly, VA 20151

(703) 490-5599

(703) 583-5995

Sterling Office

46440 Benedict Dr., Suite 111

Sterling, VA 20164

(703) 444-9555

Supportive Footwear for Older Adults

As our loved ones get older, they have a harder time keeping balance and being aware of their surroundings. Balance, or lack thereof, is a key reason for the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older people - Falls. That is why proper, supportive footwear is important for protecting our seniors to keep them healthy and mobile.

The ability to move about and be independent can play a huge part in the lifestyle of an older adult. Not only is mobility helpful to seniors, but to their loving caregivers as well. While there are many risks for older adults’ falls, including brittle bones, slippery floors, and loss of balance, supportive footwear can reduce the risk level.

So what makes supportive footwear for older adults?

  • Arch and Heel support: Make sure that the heel is stiff, but cups the heels of your feet comfortably. The insoles should have flexible cushiony support, but the outer soles of the shoes should not be easily bent in half.

  • Toebox: The toebox should not be too wide, narrow, flat, or tall. Your toes should have room to wiggle, but not enough that the front of the shoes feel like they flop around. You should be able to tie laces comfortably enough that they are snug, but not restricting so that you feet do not slide around.

  • Outer rubber soles: Take into consideration the environment in which you will be walking the most. For smooth surfaces, the rubber soles should have a good grip. For carpeted areas, the grippy soles could be a hazard that causes trips.

  • Feet should be measured each time you buy shoes as foot sizes can change. Weight changes, and especially for diabetic patients, there can be fluctuations in swelling.

  • When trying on new shoes, they should feel comfortable and secure. Thinking that they may feel better when broken can be deceptive, especially if you plan to wear these shoes right away.

If you are unsure about footwear for seniors, your best bet is to go to a podiatrist. Our board-certified foot doctor, Brad Toll, DPM, at Crofton Podiatry will be more than happy to assist you with your foot support needs. We know how important it is to keep your older loved ones protected and mobile, so make an appointment to come see us at our Crofton, MD office! Call us today at (410) 721-4505.

Contact Us

Our Locations

Find us on the map

Office Hours

(We have new hours as below!)

Crofton Podiatry

Monday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:30 am-3:30 pm

Friday:

By Appointment Only

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed