Slippers, Indoor Footwear and Preventing Falls

HEALTH · GLOBAL

Slippers, Indoor Footwear and Preventing Falls

Why slippers matter, what to look for, when to replace and other fall risks

Slippers are the most worn footwear in most homes and are a recognised factor in falls, which makes them worth more thought than they usually get.

Why they matter

Falls are the leading cause of injury in older adults, and studies consistently find ill-fitting or backless slippers among the contributing factors. Loose slippers change how people walk and catch on carpet edges and stairs.

What to look for

A fixed back or a secure strap rather than backless. A firm sole with a textured non-slip tread. A fastening that adjusts, since feet swell through the day.

They should fit like shoes rather than being roomy and comfortable, and should not slide at the heel. Thin flat soles are safer than thick cushioned ones, which reduce the feel of the floor.

When to replace

When the sole has worn smooth, the back has collapsed or the fastening no longer holds. A slipper that has moulded into a loose shape is exactly the problem.

Most people keep slippers far longer than any other footwear.

Bare feet and socks

Socks alone on hard floors and stairs are slippery and are a common cause of falls. Bare feet are safer than socks, and proper slippers are safer than both.

The rest of the falls picture

Remove loose rugs and trailing cables, improve lighting on stairs and at night, keep frequently used items within reach, and fit grab rails where needed.

Strength and balance exercise has strong evidence for reducing falls, and an annual medication review matters since several common drugs increase the risk.

Around the house

Keep a pair by the door rather than in a bedroom, since the point is that they are put on. Have a second pair for anyone who steps outside to a bin or a car.

Outdoor-soled slippers exist and keep the floor cleaner.

Buying and fit

Measure your foot and buy to that rather than going up a size for comfort, since a loose slipper is the problem. Try them at the end of the day when feet are largest.

Check the sole is replaceable or that the slipper is cheap enough to replace annually, since soles wear smooth long before the uppers look worn.

Washing

Check whether they are machine washable, since many are not and shrink or distort. Air them between wears rather than washing frequently.

Foot health

Check feet regularly for redness, blisters and breaks in the skin, particularly with diabetes or reduced sensation, where damage occurs before pain does. See a podiatrist about any sore that is slow to heal.

Keep toenails trimmed straight across, and treat athlete's foot promptly, since warm enclosed slippers are where it thrives.

Eyesight

Have eyes tested every two years, and be aware that new varifocals change depth perception on stairs while you adapt.

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