The Best Shoes for Elderly Fall Prevention

Written by: Winny Lee

Medically Reviewed By: Sarah Falcone, BSN, RN

Last Updated On: May 21, 2024

Choosing the right footwear is essential for meeting the changing needs of the elderly and minimizing the risk of dangerous falls. Falls are the leading cause of injuries to the elderly, causing over 800,000 hospitalizations each year — most of which involve injuries to the head or hip. Selecting the right shoe may be a challenge, but research and good advice can make the decision more manageable. We’ve compiled a list of the best shoes for elderly fall prevention based on our research.

Elderly individuals tend to walk by shuffling their feet, which increases the risk of falling on its own, but the risk is even higher with improper shoes. High heels, floppy slippers, and slick-soled shoes are among the worst choices for the elderly. Shoes with laces may also pose a hazard if the laces become undone.

To reduce the risk of falls in the community, the CDC recommends wearing proper footwear. But how do you choose the proper footwear for a senior?

Heel Height

Heel height plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and stability. For older adults, it’s best to choose shoes with low or no heels. High heels can alter the center of gravity and increase the risk of tripping. Ideally, shoes should have a heel height of no more than one inch. Flat shoes or those with a slight elevation can provide the necessary support and stability, helping to prevent falls.

Soles

Soles should be made from materials that provide a good grip while being flexible enough to allow for natural foot movement. Rubber soles are often a good choice as they offer excellent traction and shock absorption. It’s important that the soles are neither too thick nor too thin. Extremely thick soles can reduce the wearer’s ability to feel the ground, which can be dangerous, while very thin soles may not provide adequate cushioning, leading to discomfort and instability.

Tread

Shoes with a non-slip tread pattern can significantly reduce the likelihood of slips and falls. Look for shoes with deep grooves or patterns that can grip various surfaces, including wet or slippery floors.

However, it’s important to avoid overly aggressive treads that can catch on carpets or rugs, potentially causing trips. A balance is key—shoes should have a tread that provides secure footing without compromising ease of movement.

Weight

The weight of the shoes can influence an elderly person’s mobility and balance. Heavy shoes can cause fatigue and make it more challenging to lift the feet, increasing the risk of tripping. Lightweight shoes, on the other hand, allow for easier movement and reduce the strain on the legs and feet.

When selecting shoes for elderly fall prevention, it’s crucial to find a balance between lightness and adequate support. Ultra-light shoes may not always provide the necessary support, so aim for shoes that are lightweight but still offer good structural integrity.

Fit

Proper fit is perhaps the most important criterion when selecting shoes for the elderly. Shoes that are too tight can cause discomfort and restrict blood circulation, while those that are too loose can lead to instability and tripping.

It’s important to choose shoes that fit well in both length and width, providing ample room for the toes to move without slipping off the heel. Adjustable features, such as Velcro straps or laces, can help achieve a more customized fit, accommodating any swelling or changes in foot size throughout the day.

Shoes with a wide toe box can prevent pressure sores and blisters, which helps overall comfort and safety.

Our List of the Best Shoes for Elderly Fall Prevention

Here are our top shoe recommendations in preventing slips and falls for seniors. And remember when it comes to laces, just say NO!

1. New Balance 577 – Men’s & Women’s

The New Balance 577 is one of our top picks in the elderly shoe category. This shoe features a comfortable Velcro closure and exceptional shock absorption., It is built to be durable and long-lasting.

Sale

New Balance Men's 577 V1 Lace-up Shoe, Black, 10.5 X-Wide

Abzorb cushioning in the heel for exceptional shock absorption
Leather upper
Medicare / HCPCS code = A5500, may be eligible for Medicare reimbursement
Polyurethane Midsole for stable cushioning
Reflective accents designed to catch the light

Sale

New Balance Women's 577 V1 Hook and Loop Shoe, White, 8 Wide

Abzorb cushioning in the heel for exceptional shock absorption
Leather upper
Medicare / HCPCS code = A5500, may be eligible for Medicare reimbursement
Polyurethane Midsole for stable cushioning
Reflective accents designed to catch the light

2. Propet Stability X – Men’s & Women’s

The Propet Stability X is another top pick of ours. With a modern and stylish look, the shoe provides all-day comfort, and the added grip in the rubber outsole is a great help in preventing slips and falls.

Sale

Propét Men's Stability X Strap Closure Shoes Extra Cushion Removable Insoles, Black, 11 XX-Wide

Double insoles - with the Propet EV (Extra Volume) insole system, customized fit and comfort is easy
Features a footbed that can be removed to accommodate custom orthotics
Adjustable hook and loop strap closure

Propét Women's Stability X Strap Shoe, black/berry, 9 Medium US

Double insoles - with the Propet EV (Extra Volume) insole system, customized fit and comfort is easy
Features a footbed that can be removed to accommodate custom orthotics
Adjustable hook and loop strap closure

3. Skechers Go Walk 2 Hypo – Women’s

With a large assortment of colors and sizes, this lightweight Skechers slip-on provides all-day comfort and style. Also features an Ortholite antimicrobial sock liner for women that prefer a sock-less walking experience.

Skechers Performance Women's Go Walk 2 Hypo Walking Shoe,Black Multi,8 M US

Nearly Weightless Fitknit Custom Designed Fabric Upper
Proprietary Lightweight Injection Molded Compound with Memory Retention Midsole
V-Stride Technology Features Unique Angled Outsole
Soft Smooth Fabric Lining
Soft Smooth Fabric Lining

4. Hush Puppies Gil – Men’s

The Hush Puppies Gil is a casual, lightweight shoe with adjustable straps and unique shock-absorbing technology. These leather sneakers are crafted with a durable ZeroG outsole, making it easier than ever to tackle long days on your feet.

Hush Puppies men's Gil loafers shoes, Black Leather, 10.5 Wide US

ZeroG Elon midsole and Rubber Lon outsole for light weight
Strobel construction for flexibility and comfort
Strobel construction for flexibility and comfort

5. Propet Olivia – Women’s

The Propet Olivia is a Medicare-approved diabetic shoe. A slip-on leather shoe with adjustable straps, the Olivia has an exclusive removable insole that can be replaced with custom orthotics.

Propét Womens Olivia Walking Shoes, Black, 8 Wide US

Full-grain leather and stretchable man-made leatherette upper with oblique toe character and wide opening for easy entry. Rigid heel counter adds stability.
Breathable Open Cell PU moves moisture from foot for a cooler, healthier footbed. EVA spacer to customize fit.
Shank-reinforced wide based PU outsole provides cushion, traction and durable wear
Care Instructions - Spot Clean
Closures - Hook and loop

Fall Prevention Shoes: Things to Look For

Aging individuals tend to shuffle their feet more, so we want supportive and well fitting footwear that minimizes this trip hazard. Avoid high heels, floppy slippers and slick soles – all these features increase the risk of slipping and losing balance. Laces can become undone, posing an obvious danger, and are simply NOT desirable.

Fit and Comfort

People of all ages commonly wear shoes that fit improperly for a variety of reasons, which can increase the risk of falling. Shoes that don’t fit properly may restrict the foot and impair both balance and walking. While it may be hard to let them go, older pairs of shoes may become worn out,ill-fitting, and no longer be sufficient for an elderly’s needs.

It is important to pick shoes that fit properly without being too loose or too tight. Laces or adjustable Velcro straps are options to ensure the right fit. If added insoles are used, make sure they don’t take up too much space in the shoe. A wide width shoe may provide more room and comfort, especially for those who experience swelling in their feet.

Resist buying shoes that don’t fit with the hopes that they will break in over time. If they aren’t comfortable right away, they aren’t the right pair to buy. Discomfort will cause the fluctuations in balance or gait that may lead to falls, and it can also cause unnecessary pain and blisters. Take the time to find a shoe that is comfortable to stand and walk in right away.

Sturdy and Supportive

The ideal pair of shoes for the elderly should have a low heel for maximum contact with the ground to ensure stability while walking. High heels, more than an inch off the ground, can increase the likelihood of twisting an ankle or falling.

The shoe material and design should offer some flexibility but without losing its shape. A high back shoe offers the necessary support for heel and ankle. Avoid narrow soles or heels that may not provide enough stability for safe walking. And look for shock absorption to reduce the impact to joints.

Nonskid Soles

Shoes for the elderly should have a quality grip on the soles to prevent slipping while moving around. An adequate sole should grip to the ground in wet or dry conditions. If the sole no longer does its job, it’s time to replace the shoes before a slip or fall occurs.

If wearing shoes inside the home isn’t preferable, consider a pair of no-slip socks with good grip to indoor flooring. Bombas is one of many types of no-slip socks. They’re made with PVC grips to prevent skidding and slipping on hard floors. Many other brands also offer no-slip features.

Custom Shoes

One option for finding the right shoe is to get professionally measured so you can buy according to proper sizing. Our foot changes size during our adult life – it’s not a sign of losing elegance if it gets larger as you age. Changes in health as well as age may cause foot sizes to change, so don’t rely on the size you’ve “always been” – get measured.

Those who have health problems may need to have shoes made per the instruction of their podiatrist. Some may be prescribed orthotics to be inserted in their shoes. These should be carried along when shopping for shoes to ensure a new pair will accommodate them.

Selecting the right pair of shoes for an elderly loved one may be a demanding task, but it’s worthwhile to enhance their safety and reduce their risk of falls. Don’t forget to read about the best medical alert system for your loved one for added safety and peace of mind.