Should Older Women Wear Heels?
Heels are a staple in many womens' wardrobes. But is there an age where stilettos start to become inappropriate or even unsafe footwear? While cultural norms vary, there are some considerations around older women continuing to wear heels later in life.
Potential Benefits of Older Women in Heels
First, let's challenge the assumption that heels are only for the young. There are actually some potential perks to older women wearing heels in moderation:
- Posture & Leg Toning: Heels require engaging core muscles to stand and walk properly. This can strengthen back muscles and improve overall posture.
- Height & Confidence: The height boost from heels can make some older women feel more youthful and self-assured.
- Style Expression: Heels allow older women to explore fashion and retain their sense of style as they age.
Limitations Around Age & Heels
However, there are some physical limitations that come with advanced age that make very high heels unrealistic footwear choices:
- Balance Issues: As spatial awareness, vision, circulation, nerve sensitivity and muscle strength deteriorate, balance suffers making tall heels precarious.
- Foot Changes: Feet tend to flatten and spread out with age, making properly fitting heels uncomfortable.
- Thinning Bones: Bone density loss later in life also raises the risks of fractures and breaks if falls occur.
Tips for Older Women Wearing Heels
The key is finding a middle ground - selecting heels styles that are alluring yet sensible given the realities of an aging body. Strategies include:
- Wearing thick heels or wedges below 3 inches
- Choosing heels with ankle straps for stability
- Using tap rubber grips on bare heels
- Carrying foldable flats as backups
- Getting shoe inserts for cushioning
Guide to the Best Heels for Older Women
With some modifications, older women can still incorporate heels into their wardrobes safely. Consider these stylish heel types ideal for mature feet and frames.
1. Kitten Heels
These short heels ranging from 1 to 2 inches high are the best introductory heel for older novices. They offer a subtle lift with a stable widened heel perfect for aging feet.
2. Block Heels
The chunky square heel and sole provide maximum stability, with many styles managing to still look chic. Go for shorter blocks around 2 inches high.
3. Wedges
Wedges offer better balance than stilettos by distributing weight across the entire sole. Opt for low or mid-height wedges in espadrille, cork or lucite styles.
4. Thick Heels
Heels over 2 inches should have an extra wide, stacked heel and deep tread sole to prevent slips. Waterproof leather or rubber heels also work on rainy days.
5. Ankle Strap Heels
An ankle strap fastened across the top of the foot provides extra security, preventing shoes from slipping forward or sideways off aging feet.
6. Platform Heels
Platform soles minimize how far balls of the feet are angled above the heels, enhancing overall comfort and stability in heels over 3 inches.
Top Foot Care Tips for Older Women in Heels
Caring properly for mature feet is also key to making heels feel pleasant versus painful by countering age-related stiffness, swelling, and thinning cushioning:
Moisturize Dry Skin
Rub lotion daily over entire foot area, moisturizing any cracked heels or calluses.
Smooth Calluses
Gently buff away any thick, dead skin with foot files to prevent irritation in shoes.
Trim Toenails Properly
Cut nails straight across to ends of toes to prevent ingrown nails in confined heels.
Wear Correct Socks
Cotton or wool socks help wick away moisture and reduce friction inside snug heels.
Shop Later In The Day
Feet tend swell during day, so buy heels in the afternoon when feet are largest.
Consider Custom Inserts
Tailored orthotics compensate for flattened arches or feet spreading with age.
Carry Foldable Flats
Tuck rollable ballet flats into bags for swapping out heels to give feet a break.
Signs Heels Are Unsafe for An Older Woman
Pay attention to signs from aging feet that indicate heels may need limiting to special occasions or retiring altogether:
- Unsteady walking, veering left or right
- Prickling numbness or nerve pain
- Aching feet, cramping calves
- Hammertoes, bunions worsening
- Frequent trips or stumbles
The higher and thinner the heel, the less tenable it becomes as loss of flexibility, circulation, and fatty cushioning changes feet. Listen to your body.
FAQs
What heel heights are best for older women?
Kitten heels and low wedges or blocks around 1-2 inches high are best for older women. Higher heels over 3 inches can become challenging balance-wise as you age.
Should elderly women avoid stilettos?
Yes, very high stilettos should be avoided in old age as they require excellent balance and strength to walk in without injury risk. Opt for wide, stacked lower heels instead for stability.
Do heels cause more foot problems as you age?
Yes, heels can aggravate foot issues like arthritis and bunions that occur with aging. Wearing improper heel heights or styles can also increase risks of slips and falls leading to breaks.
What tipo help older women wear heels more comfortably?
Moisturize feet daily, use inserts for cushioning, shop for heels in the afternoon, carry foldable flats for swapping out heels, and opt for wider heels with ankle straps to make heels easier on mature feet.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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