Slips and falls are a major hazard for aging retirees, especially those that live alone. Aside from the injuries they may sustain, which includes hip fractures, the price of medical treatment can lead to financial ruin, as the cost of a hospital stay can easily wipe out those who are not insured. Fortunately, a simple and low-cost solution is anti-slip shoes for elders, which can be used to prevent falls before they occur.
How Do Non-Slip Shoes Differ from Standard Footwear?
As many people age, they will lose their natural coordination and balance. As such, the shoes which are normally worn by younger people are not adequate for many aging retirees. In addition to a loss of coordination and balance, aging people also experience changes in their feet that make them more susceptible to falling down.
Feet have natural padding which starts near the ball and heel, but as a person gets older, the feet arches might become flatter with reduced flexibility. It is also common for the feet of aging retirees to be longer and wider, so the shoes that fit 10 years ago may no longer be effective. In fact, a study from the Health in Aging Foundation concluded that 3 out of 4 retirees wear shoes that are smaller than they should be.
Non-slip shoes provide a number of benefits. In addition to properly fitting the feet, they also provide protection against moisture, comfort, and a robust foundation. The feet will have sufficient cushioning and arch support, with protection while walking along rough surfaces. Retirees who have tried non-slip shoes love them because they are simple to put on, offer a superior grip on multiple surfaces, and feel great on the feet.
Types of Non-Slip Shoes
Non-slip shoes come in multiple varieties, which are worn based on the activity the wearer will engage in and where they will be traveling.
Winter Shoes
This footwear is designed for walking on snow, sleet, ice, or wet surfaces. They come with rubber soles that are simple to place on the feet yet offer outstanding traction and warmth when moving along slick and frigid surfaces, and many brands come with Velcro or lace straps that make them easy to secure.
House Shoes
As the name suggests, this footwear is designed to be worn around the home. They tend to come with rubber soles that use a patterned bottom, yet are soft and simple to get on.
Beach Shoes
These shoes are designed for retirees who live in ocean-side communities. They are the complete opposite of the flimsy sandals that most young people wear and instead fit snugly while keeping their feet cool. They usually contain straps that lock them in place and prevent sideways sliding and the bottoms are made of rubber. The best brands are designed to keep out sand.
