Adaptive Footwear for Caregivers: 6 Ways They Can Help

Adaptive Footwear for Caregivers: 6 Ways They Can Help

Written by Alisa Matsushita-Bomba & reviewed by Nicole Fernandes

 

As a caregiver, what matters most is the well-being and comfort of your loved ones. Paying attention to footwear is essential when it comes to giving proper care. Adaptive footwear provides practical solutions for those with mobility issues, improving their overall comfort, safety, and quality of life. 

 

What is Adaptive Footwear?

Adaptive footwear is shoes specifically designed to be easier to put on and remove. They can increase mobility and independence for seniors and anyone who would benefit from these types of shoes, like individuals who may have trouble wearing standard footwear due to reasons such as reduced mobility, foot abnormalities, swelling, or the need to wear orthotics. What separates adaptive footwear is its clever development and execution of features that answer the wearer's individual demands. Adjustable closures, such as Velcro straps or elasticized laces, can be incorporated into these features in order to make it easier to put on and take off the shoes. June Adaptive carries a variety of adaptive footwear from brands such as Silverts and Friendly. 

 

Stability Improvements and Fall Prevention

Stability and fall prevention are the top concerns in adaptive footwear. Many models have slip-resistant soles that offer reliable grip while reducing the risk of slips and falls. These shoes have long-lasting outsoles that provide good traction on a variety of surfaces, both indoors and out. Adaptive footwear helps carers maintain a safe atmosphere for their loved ones by ensuring stability.

 

These men’s wide sneakers are made to be slip resistant to improve stability and safety. They are also designed with a big velcro fastening for a secure fit and are ideal for swelling feet or ankles. To increase the width from regular to extra wide, two additional spacer insoles can be removed. 

Men's Wild Slip On Sneakers Side View (Grey)
Men's Wide Easy Slip-On Sneakers Without Laces 

 

Protection and Pressure Relief

People who spend extended periods of time seated or lying are at risk of developing pressure ulcers or skin breakdown. Adaptive footwear has elements that relieve pressure and protect susceptible areas. Cushioned soles, seamless internal linings, and soft materials help to reduce friction and pressure, which lowers the risk of skin injuries.

 

The women’s extra wide comfort shoes found on June Adaptive’s website provide extra comfort and support for people who need them. These slippers give all-day comfort and flexibility, but they also have detachable memory foam insoles for personalized orthotics. They have a large velcro fastening for a secure fit and are ideal for swelling feet or ankles. In addition, the slip-resistant soles keep you from falling and improve safety. These are ideal for people who have bunions, arthritis, corns, hammer toes, foot edema, diabetes, or other foot problems. These slippers are also designed with washable fabrics and Anti-Microbial Fluid Barrier technology, which protects your feet from spills and odours. This is helpful for people who have incontinence.

Front of the Black Women's Extra Wide Comfort Shoes
Women's Extra Wide Comfort Shoes 

 

The Convenience of Putting On and Taking Off

One of the difficulties that caretakers commonly face involves helping put socks and shoes on and off. Adaptive footwear solves this issue by including features that allow for easy wearing and removal. Velcro closures, elasticized laces, or hook-and-loop straps reduce the need for manual dexterity or bending down, making it easier for caretakers to assist or for the person to handle their shoes independently.

 

If you are looking for adjustable shoes that are easy to take on and off, these women’s extra wide adjustable shoes with easy closures are what you need. The person who wears these shoes can customize the fit of their slip-on shoes with a replaceable insole and two spacers. Shoe width is adjustable, allowing for extra large or swollen feet. These extra-wide slippers are easy to put on and take off. These sneakers also have a lightweight cushioned rubber sole for extra comfort.

Women's Extra Wide Comfort Adjustable Shoes with Easy Closures
Women's Extra Wide Comfort Adjustable Shoes with Easy Closures 

 

Personalized Fit and Comfort

When it comes to footwear for people with mobility issues, comfort is essential. Adaptive footwear has elements that can be adjusted to suit edema, foot abnormalities, or orthotics. To give optimal comfort and support throughout the day, these shoes frequently have bigger toe boxes, cushioned insoles, and removable insoles.

 

These men’s lightweight supported sneakers are available in a wear-with-everything colour with smooth and discreet linings, removable dual-density memory foam insoles and a super easy-to-use rear zip for maximum comfort. The Excursion is a slip-resistant, shock-absorbing, lightweight shoe designed for creating a personalized fit. Wide-expanding upper and generous toe-box depth accommodates wider feet, swelling, orthotics, and AFO/SMO (Ankle Foot Orthotics/Supra Malleolar Orthotics) with ease. 

Mens deep blue zippered shoes side view
Men's Lightweight Supported Shoes with Rear Zipper Access Deep Sea 

 

Fashion and Style

Adaptive footwear is no longer restricted to basic, functional styles. There are now fashionable solutions that prioritize both function and fashion. Caregivers and individuals can discover adaptable shoes that match their different clothing and personal tastes, allowing for self-expression and confidence.

 

For children who want to have both fashionable and functional shoes, these girls’ mermaid lightweight shoes are perfect for them. An Occupational Therapist designed these comfortable and lightweight walking shoes with back zip, allowing your children to slip into their shoes faster and easier. They have removable memory foam insoles that provide dual-density heel, arch, and metatarsal support, while still giving the option to insert custom orthotics.

Girl's Mermaid Lightweight Shoes with Rear Zipper Closed
Girl's Mermaid Lightweight Shoes with Rear Zipper Access 

 

Support for Foot Concerns

Foot disorders like arthritis, plantar fasciitis, and bunions can cause pain and restrict movement. Adaptive footwear has aspects that help to support and relieve symptoms associated with certain disorders. Shoes featuring arch support, shock-absorbing soles, and improved stability are helpful with pain management and foot alignment.

 

These women’s lightweight cushioned shoes are equipped with ample cushioning throughout the insole and midsole. This cushioning helps absorb shock and reduces the impact on the feet, making them ideal for individuals with foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or general foot pain. The rear zip access design makes it easier to put on and take off the shoes. This is especially useful for people who have restricted movement or dexterity as it eliminates the need to bend over or struggle with laces or traditional closures. Proper arch support is also important for maintaining foot alignment and decreasing pain caused by conditions such as flat feet or fallen arches. Built-in arch support helps distribute pressure evenly across the feet, improves stability, and reduces strain on the arches. Individuals suffering from arch-related issues may benefit from this feature.

Womens Cafe au Lait zippered shoes side view
Women's Lightweight Cushioned Shoes with Rear Zipper Access Cafe au Lait 

 

 

Adaptive footwear plays an important role in enhancing care and comfort for those with mobility issues. Choosing the right shoes for your loved ones can have a significant impact on their happiness and improve their quality of life. Adaptive footwear offers many benefits, including greater stability, ease of use, tailored fit and comfort, reduced pressure, support for foot problems, and opportunities for personal style expression. Caregivers may provide the best care for their loved ones while fostering independence, safety, and overall well-being by wearing adaptive footwear.

By researching the many adaptive footwear options available, such as those offered by June Adaptive, you will be able to find the best match for your caretaking needs and for your loved ones.

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