As concern mounts over the growing number of falls affecting older people in the UK, DB Wider Fit Shoes is encouraging those in the over-60 age group to think more carefully about whether their footwear is truly fit for purpose.
Falls among people aged 65 and over are linked to roughly one in four of all ambulance call-outs, and hospital admissions for this demographic grew by more than a quarter during the ten-year period that ended in 2020.
Research cited by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence indicates that around 30% of people over the age of 65 and approximately half of those over 80 will have at least one fall per year. Among the over-65 population in the UK, falls are also the most prevalent cause of deaths stemming from injuries.
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 continued: “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 is in her 70s and is now using her own story to prompt others to pay more attention to the shoes they wear, after she suffered a fall in her previous footwear that was severe enough to result in a hospital admission.
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.”