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Elderly Shuffling Feet: Causes, Concerns, and Solutions

Posted by:

Johannes Sauer

Updated at: December 19, 2024

Table of Contents

  1. Causes of Shuffling Gait in the Elderly

  2. Risks Associated with Shuffling Feet

  3. Solutions to Improve Mobility and Reduce Fall Risk

  4. How Cadense Shoes Can Improve Shuffling Gait

Shuffling feet is a common concern among older adults and their caregivers. It can indicate an underlying health issue. A shuffling gait can also increase the risk of falls.

For those reasons, it is important to seek a diagnosis and treatment. This post will introduce you to some prevalent causes of elderly shuffling feet, as well as what you can do about it.

Causes of Shuffling Gait in the Elderly


  • Muscle weakness and balance issues: Older people who have weak muscles or difficulty maintaining their balance may shuffle as they walk.
  • Neurological disorders like Parkinson's or Alzheimer's: Both of these conditions can lead to slower movements, reduced balance, and shuffling of the feet.
  • Experiencing a stroke: Many patients experience difficulties walking after a stroke, which can include shuffling.
  • Arthritis or joint pain: Patients who are experiencing pain in their joints may shuffle instead of walking normally. 
  • Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage): This condition can cause pain or numbness in the feet, leading to gait abnormalities like shuffling or foot drop. 
  • Vision problems or poor depth perception: Not being able to see depth properly can cause someone to not lift their feet sufficiently.

Risks Associated with Shuffling Feet

  • Shuffling leads to an increased risk of tripping and falling, including tripping over one’s own feet. 
  • Reduced mobility and independence can result from a shuffling gait that makes it hard to get around effectively. 
  • Difficulty with daily activities can result from needing to shuffle. 
  • Some people who have a shuffling gait fear falling, which in turn can cause them to stay in one place and isolate. As a result, they can experience loneliness. This loneliness can be an additional health risk for an older person.
  • If shuffling leads to falls, those falls can sometimes cause hip fractures and other serious injuries. 

Solutions to Improve Mobility and Reduce Fall Risk

an elderly couple sitting in nature

Dec 19, 2024

Given all of the risks posed by shuffling feet, it is important to take steps to either improve gait and reduce shuffling, or increase safety with a shuffling gait.

  • Physical therapy to improve strength and balance: A physical therapist can assign safe, gentle exercises to boost strength and balance, which may improve gait and reduce the chances of falling.
  • Assistive devices like walkers or canes: These devices can help compensate for lack of strength or balance. 
  • Proper footwear with good support and traction: Wearing appropriate shoes for seniors can help elderly people to walk safely, even if they cannot fully lift their feet.
  • Home modifications to remove tripping hazards: Clear walkways of obstructions, and ensure suitable lighting.
  • Medication review to address side effects: Check if the older adult is taking any medications that might be making them dizzy or otherwise interfering with their walking.

How Cadense Shoes Can Improve Shuffling Gait

One simple lifestyle change that can help older adults walk safely with a shuffling gait is the right footwear. The Cadense Adaptive Shoe for men and women is designed to promote stability and reduce fall risk. 

This shoe features a wide base and non-slip soles. It also includes patented variable friction technology that lets the wearer’s feet “glide” over uneven surfaces, even if they have a shuffling gait and cannot fully lift their feet. 

Another convenient feature of these shoes are their easy on/off closures. This can be helpful for seniors who have a difficult time with more elaborate closures.

In addition, these shoes are available in a range of stylish options. Being able to pick a look that suits one’s personality can help a senior to maintain their confidence while they are out and about.

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FAQ

What causes elderly people to shuffle their feet when walking?

There are many possibilities. A few include a condition like Parkinson’s or dementia, peripheral neuropathy, or joint pain. Scroll up and read our full post to learn others.

Is shuffling gait a normal part of aging?

It is common, but can signify an underlying health concern, even if it is a minor one. It is always wise to consult with a doctor.

What are the risks associated with shuffling feet in the elderly?

Shuffling can lead to tripping and falling, injuries, and difficulty getting around.

How can I tell if my loved one's shuffling gait is a cause for concern?

The best way to find out is to schedule an appointment with your loved one’s healthcare provider. 

Posted by: Johannes Sauer

Johannes is the CEO and Co-Founder of Cadense and passionate about helping people with walking difficulties. Johannes is the CEO and Co-Founder of Cadense and passionate about helping people with walking difficulties. He was immediately drawn to the mission of the company because his cousin lost his lower leg in a tragic motorcycle accident a few years ago and is experiencing walking difficulties ever since. Johannes brings over a decade of experience in working for consumer product companies to Cadense. He holds an MBA from the University of Graz in Austria. Johannes lives with his family in Santa Barbara, CA.

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Medical Disclaimer: This website is not intended for the purpose of providing medical advice. This website’s information, content, and material are for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider. Cadense Inc. may not be held liable for any damages whether incidental, ordinary or consequential. Cadense does not make any guarantee of any particular end result. Cadense makes no claims or guarantees of payment/reimbursement by any insurance companies. Cadense adaptive shoes are intended to provide greater mobility to those with walking difficulties.