What Do You Need to Keep in Mind When Buying Shoes for Your Senior?
New shoes help your elderly family member to stay stable while she’s walking and they keep her feet protected. Choosing new shoes can be more difficult than you anticipated, though, especially if you don’t know what size she needs.
Measure the Largest Foot to Get Accurate Sizing
Almost everyone has one foot that’s a little bit bigger or wider than the other. That’s true for your senior, too. So if you accidentally measure the wrong foot, you’ll end up with shoes that don’t get of your aging adult’s feet. Make sure that you either measure both feet or measure the one that is the largest.
Choose a Sturdy Shoe with a Non-slip Sole
Now that you know what shoes will fit, opt for styles that are sturdy with good support. Leather uppers offer a great deal of support and they tend to last for a long time. Choose rubberized soles that have a good tread on them. Comfort is just as important as anything else when it comes to buying shoes, so insoles that are springy and soft are another good selling point.
Even with the Right Size, Try Them On
No matter what the shoe size says, it’s imperative that your elderly family member tries them on. If you’re ordering her shoes online or from an orthopedic shoe company, there is usually a return and refund policy. Make sure that you’re familiar with it so that you know where you stand if you have to send the shoes back.
If The Shoes Are Tight or Pinch, Don’t Get Them
It’s a common misconception that shoes, particularly shoes made out of leather, will stretch over time and become more comfortable. This is not as true as most people want it to be. If the shoes are too tight or don’t fit your senior well, then she really shouldn’t be wearing them. Either go up another size or find a different style of shoe.
Try the Shoes Out for a While
Now that she’s got some new shoes, encourage your elderly family member to wear them as much as possible. This lets her get used to wearing them and gives you both a chance to see whether they work for her. Let home care providers and other family members know which shoes are still the newer ones so they can be on the lookout for any issues.
Remember that your senior needs more than one pair of sturdy shoes that fit well. Having multiple pairs allows her to change them out often and let them dry out fully if they happen to get wet outside.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering Elder Care in Lawrenceville, GA, please contact the caring staff at Sustained Hope Home Care today. Call us at 1-866-4.1.TO.CARE (1-866-418-6227).
