What a lively and informative discussion we had at our November 5th meeting which began with the topic of shoes.
We all agreed that shoe selection is important to prevent tripping and falling with Parkinson’s. Heels are out and dress shoes are a challenge. Getting our feet into (and out of) shoes, dressy and casual, is challenging, as are those times when we get dressed up and want our shoes to feel somewhat stylishly connected to the rest of our outfit.
Dr. Scholl shoes were mentioned as offering footwear that meets both comfort and dress shoe criteria. Another dress shoe option, Easy Spirit Mary Janes, has a strap that goes across the top of your foot to keep them from slipping off while wearing. Bzees shoes also offers a variety of dressier and more casual style selections.
What about everyday shoes? Favored brands for walking shoes and sneakers are New Balance, Easy Spirit, and Sketchers. Those with bunions like soft top shoes that stretch and ease the pain. The shoe with the most votes is Sketchers Slip-Ins. They come in a variety of materials for indoor and outdoor wear.
Everyone mentioned shoes catching on the lip of steps when walking down the stairs. A reminder to be mindful and careful when climbing and descending stairs.
Potomac River Running Store, with locations throughout our area, offers an 8-step fitting process “to match your foot and your needs to the best shoe.” They also sell inserts for those who need extra cushioning. OrthoFeet is an online option for orthopedic footwear, especially for those with wide feet.
Many of us are using hiking poles and walking sticks, which from our discussion are most likely not allowed as carry-on items for air travel. Using a wheelchair to get through the airport and packing poles or walking sticks appears to be an option.
When it comes to getting in and out of a piece of apparel, bras top the difficulty list. They also top the discomfort list. Front clasps or zippers; wider or crisscross straps to keep those darn straps in place; bras to help posture; bras that are comfortable. No one, as yet, has found a perfect solution. The “miracle” bra has not performed for those who tried it. Sports bras are hard to get on as well. A camisole top with a built-in bra has met one of our needs. And someone suggested The Vermont Country Store as a good place to shop for bras. A topic to-be-continued, I’m sure.
Shoes, walking sticks, and bras naturally led to our talking about exercise and encouraging each other, no matter where we are physically, to keep moving. To keep walking. To keep strengthening our bodies as best as we can. To take in the fresh air and the beauty outdoors. To stay connected to our world and everyone in it.
We spoke of stationary bikes and the benefits cycling may offer; kitchen ergonomic floor mats and how they help relieve the physical fatigue from standing too long; Thai bananas that contain a dopamine precursor, antioxidants, magnesium, and fiber. An insightful, helpful, supportive discussion by all!
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