Helping Your Loved One Walk Safely with Parkinson's
Finding the right footwear can reduce falls, restore confidence, and preserve independence. We're here to help you help them.
If you're caring for someone with Parkinson's disease, you already know how much the little things matter. Something as simple as putting on shoes can become a daily struggle—and the wrong footwear can turn every step into a fall risk.
The good news? Footwear is something you can control. The right shoes can dramatically improve your loved one's balance, reduce freezing episodes, and help them maintain the independence that means so much to both of you.
This guide combines the latest medical research with practical recommendations, written specifically for caregivers like you who want real answers.
Understanding How Parkinson's Affects Walking
Your loved one may be experiencing these common mobility challenges. Understanding them helps you choose better footwear.
Freezing of Gait
You may notice your loved one suddenly stop mid-step, as if their feet are "glued" to the floor. This happens to 50% of people with Parkinson's and causes 61% of their falls.
How shoes help: Lightweight shoes with textured insoles provide sensory feedback that can help "unfreeze" the brain-foot connection.
Shuffling Gait
Steps become shorter and feet barely lift off the ground. This dramatically increases tripping risk, especially on uneven surfaces or carpet edges.
How shoes help: Non-slip soles prevent catching, while lightweight construction makes it easier to lift feet with each step.
Balance & Posture Issues
Parkinson's often causes a forward-leaning posture and difficulty with balance. People with Parkinson's have a 3x higher fall rate than others their age.
How shoes help: Wide, stable soles with low heels create a firm foundation. Firm heel counters prevent ankle rolling.
You're not alone in this. These challenges are a normal part of Parkinson's, and millions of caregivers face them every day. The right footwear won't cure these symptoms, but it can make a real difference in safety and confidence.
6 Essential Features to Look For
When shopping for shoes, use this checklist. Print it out and take it with you.
Easy On/Off Closures
Look for zippers, velcro, or elastic laces. Avoid traditional laces entirely—tremors and stiff fingers make them nearly impossible.
Non-Slip Rubber Soles
Textured rubber outsoles are essential. Never buy leather-soled shoes—they're dangerously slippery on most surfaces.
Lightweight Construction
Heavy shoes make shuffling worse. Look for materials under 12oz per shoe. Your loved one will tire less quickly.
Wide, Stable Base
The sole should extend slightly beyond the foot. Low heel-to-toe drop (under 10mm) and a firm heel counter help prevent rolling.
Roomy Toe Box
Parkinson's can cause toe curling (dystonia) and swelling from reduced mobility. A spacious toe box allows natural spread and accommodates changes.
Textured Insoles
Research shows textured insoles improve gait, balance, and foot sensation in Parkinson's patients. They provide sensory feedback that helps the brain.
What to Avoid When Shopping
Common footwear mistakes that increase fall risk.
Our Top Recommendations
Shoes designed specifically for the challenges your loved one faces.
Excursion Wide Shoe
Designed for serious mobility challenges
- Full rear zipper—opens completely for easy foot placement
- Extra-wide toe box—room for dystonia, swelling, or orthotics
- Stretchy, adaptive upper—moves with the foot
- Memory foam insole—molds to unique foot shape
- Lightweight at 9oz—won't contribute to shuffling
- Non-slip rubber outsole—textured for maximum grip
Best for: Moderate to severe Parkinson's, significant tremors, frequent freezing episodes, or need for caregiver assistance.
Shop Excursion Wide
Voyage Shoe
Front zipper for true independence
- Full front zipper—position foot, zip up, done
- Large pull-tab—easy to grip even with tremors
- Flexible, forgiving upper—accommodates foot changes
- Cushioned footbed—comfort meets stability
- Slip-resistant sole—safe on all surfaces
Best for: Maintaining independence, tremors that make back zippers difficult, or those who want to dress themselves.
Shop VoyageA Guide for Caregivers
Practical tips for helping your loved one with footwear while preserving their dignity and independence.
Involve Them in Choices
Even if your loved one needs help, involve them in selecting styles and colors they like. Autonomy matters for dignity. Show them options and let them choose.
Create a Shoe Station
Set up a sturdy chair with armrests near the entryway, with good lighting. Never have them stand while putting on shoes. Keep a long-handled shoehorn nearby.
Be Patient with Timing
Even with easy-access shoes, getting dressed takes longer with Parkinson's. Rushing creates stress that worsens tremors and freezing. Build extra time into your routine.
Check Shoes Monthly
Inspect soles for worn treads, check insoles for compression, and look for broken support. Your loved one may not notice deterioration. Replace every 6-12 months.
Keep Shoes On During Day
Going barefoot or wearing only socks dramatically increases fall risk. Have them wear supportive shoes from morning until bedtime, even indoors.
Consider Professional Fitting
A physical therapist or certified pedorthist experienced with Parkinson's can provide personalized recommendations. Insurance may cover this with a doctor's referral.
A Note for You, the Caregiver
Caring for someone with Parkinson's is both rewarding and exhausting. Remember to take care of yourself too. Small wins—like finding the right shoes—make a real difference in your daily life together. You're doing important work.
What the Research Says
Visual Cueing Reduces Freezing
A study on laser shoes showed that visual cues projected on the floor reduced freezing episodes by 45.9% when patients were "off" medication.
Textured Insoles Improve Gait
Research shows textured insoles have positive effects on gait parameters, balance, and plantar sensation in people with Parkinson's disease.
Footwear Is a Modifiable Risk Factor
The Michael J. Fox Foundation emphasizes that unlike many Parkinson's symptoms, footwear is something you can control.
Frequently Asked Questions
This is common. Involve them in the selection process and focus on what they'll gain—independence, less fear of falling, comfort. Let them try shoes at home before committing. Sometimes a doctor or physical therapist's recommendation carries more weight than a family member's.
It depends on the slip-on. Loose slippers are dangerous—no heel support, can slip off mid-step. But structured slip-ons with elastic collars, firm heel counters, and non-slip soles can be excellent choices for independence.
Medicare Part B may cover therapeutic shoes if your loved one has diabetes with foot complications. For Parkinson's alone, coverage is less common, but a physical therapist visit to assess footwear needs may be covered. Check with your specific plan.
Every 6-12 months or after 300-500 miles of walking. With Parkinson's, replace sooner if you notice worn treads, compressed cushioning, or broken-down heel counters. The stakes are too high for worn-out shoes.
Research suggests yes. Specialized shoes with laser projections have shown significant reductions in freezing. More practically, textured insoles, lightweight construction, and proper fit can all help reduce freezing frequency and make episodes safer.
Key Takeaways
- Choose shoes with easy on/off closures—zippers, velcro, or elastic laces (never traditional laces)
- Insist on non-slip rubber soles with textured treads
- Look for lightweight construction to reduce shuffling and fatigue
- Ensure a wide, stable base with low heel for better balance
- Consider textured insoles for improved sensory feedback
- Avoid flip-flops, slippers, heavy boots, and leather soles
- Replace shoes every 6-12 months or when treads show wear
- Create a comfortable shoe station with a sturdy chair
- Keep shoes on during the day—bare feet dramatically increase fall risk
Every Safe Step Matters
You're reading this because you care deeply about someone with Parkinson's. That care shows in every decision you make to help them—including finding the right footwear.
With 60% of people with Parkinson's falling each year, the right shoes aren't just about comfort. They're about safety, confidence, and preserving the independence that means so much to both of you.
Small changes can make a big difference. Start with the shoes.
Research Sources
- Parkinson's Foundation - Freezing and Fall Prevention
- Michael J. Fox Foundation - What's the Best Shoe for Parkinson's?
- Prognostic factors for falls in Parkinson's disease (2024)
- The laser shoes: A new ambulatory device to alleviate freezing of gait
- Effect of Foot Orthoses and Shoes in Parkinson's Disease
