With fall-related incidents among older people continuing to place significant pressure on health services across the UK, DB Wider Fit Shoes is urging those aged over 60 not to underestimate the role that their choice of footwear can play in keeping them safe.
Falls involving people aged over 65 are estimated to account for one in every four ambulance call-outs, and hospital admissions among that age group rose by in excess of 25% throughout the ten years that preceded 2020.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence estimates that roughly 30% of the over-65 population and 50% of those over 80 will experience at least one fall each year. In the UK, falls are also responsible for more injury-related deaths among the over-65s than any other single cause.
Charles Denton for DB Wider Fit Shoes said: “Falls can have many different causes, from balance issues to ageing, but footwear is often overlooked as part of the conversation.”
He added: “Poorly fitting shoes or footwear without proper support can affect stability and increase the risk of trips. Shoes that fit properly, with secure fastenings and good grip, can help people feel steadier and more confident on their feet, particularly those managing conditions such as arthritis or neuropathy.”
Ann, who is in her seventies, has decided to share her personal experience to encourage others to think more carefully about their footwear, having ended up in hospital following a fall that she attributes in part to the shoes she was wearing at the time.
Ann lives with Peripheral Neuropathy, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis. Peripheral Neuropathy can reduce feeling in the feet, while arthritis affects joints and stability. Together, these conditions can increase the risk of losing balance.
After a fall from her previous shoes, which left her in the hospital, Ann is now wearing comfortable shoes, which are making a difference.
“Put those three conditions together, and it doesn’t do your feet any good,” she said. After discussing her situation with her podiatrist, who suggested she try a wider-fitting, more supportive shoe, Ann decided it was time to change her footwear.
Since changing her footwear, Ann says she noticed a difference almost immediately. She is back to doing the things she enjoys most, including spending time in her garden and taking her dog for walks.
The spokesperson added: “Ann’s experience highlights the importance of supportive, well-fitting footwear, particularly for people managing conditions that affect balance or stability as they get older.”