Long Handled Shoe Horn for Elderly People: How to Choose One

A long-handled shoe horn can make putting on shoes much easier for older people. It lets you guide your heel into the shoe without bending right down, which helps protect your back and your balance. Look for a model long enough for you to use while sitting or standing, with a firm, comfortable grip, a smooth wide blade and strong construction. This guide explains the types, what to look for and where to get help with dressing aids in the UK.

Key points

• A long-handled shoe horn reduces bending, which can help you stay steady while putting on shoes.
• Metal and sturdy plastic shoe horns both work. Choose one that does not bend under pressure.
• A wide, smooth blade and a non-slip handle make it easier to guide your heel in.
• Telescopic (extending) shoe horns adjust in length and pack away small.
• An occupational therapist can advise on dressing aids. Some NHS services ask you to buy small items like shoe horns yourself.

Why a good shoe horn helps

Putting on shoes can be hard if bending is painful, your balance is not good, or your hands are stiff. Bending and reaching can also make a fall more likely. NHS advice on preventing falls says not to try tasks you find difficult, such as reaching. A shoe horn helps you slide your foot into your shoe without a struggle. It also helps keep the back of your shoes in shape.

Good footwear matters too. The NHS advises wearing shoes or slippers that fit well, do not slip off and have a good grip. Age UK suggests high-sided shoes with low heels, thin soles and good grip. Gentle exercise can help your balance as well. See our gentle exercises for older adults.

Types of shoe horn

Type	Best for
Short (pocket) shoe horn	Travel and handbags. You need to bend to use it.
Standard shoe horn	Use while seated if you can bend fairly easily
Long-handled shoe horn	Use while sitting or standing with little bending
Extra-long shoe horn	People who cannot bend much, for example after hip surgery (follow your therapist's advice)
Telescopic shoe horn	Adjustable length that also packs away small

Long-handled and extra-long shoe horns are the most helpful if bending is a problem. Telescopic types give you both reach and portability. Choosing equipment that lowers the risk of injury is also part of a carer's duty of care.

What to look for in a shoe horn

• Length: sit in your usual chair and check you can reach your heel without leaning far forward. Longer shoe horns mean less bending. Shorter ones give a little more control.
• Grip: a non-slip handle that feels secure, even if your hands are weak or stiff.
• Blade: smooth, curved and wide enough to guide your heel without catching.
• Strength: metal or thick plastic that will not bend or snap.
• Storage: a hanging hole, strap or hook so you can keep it by the door or bed.

Long-handled shoe horns for limited mobility

A long-handled shoe horn is a simple aid that can help you stay independent when getting dressed. It is especially useful if you have back pain, stiff hips or knees, or you are recovering from surgery. Many are sold in UK pharmacies and mobility shops, and online.

The NHS lists gadgets to help with getting dressed, such as aids for putting on socks and tights. Shoe horns are often used alongside these, along with "helping hand" grabbers. One NHS trust's occupational therapy leaflet lists long-handled shoe horns among aids for lower body dressing, which patients buy themselves. Being able to get ready easily also makes it easier to get out and join local groups and activities.

Portable shoe horns for travel

If you travel or are often out, a small or telescopic shoe horn is handy. Look for:

Feature	Why it helps
Compact or folding	Fits in a handbag, suitcase or coat pocket
Light weight	Easy to carry every day
Strong material	Will not snap in a bag
Clip, case or strap	Harder to lose

Remember that short shoe horns need more bending. If bending is the problem, a telescopic one is usually the better travel choice. Family carers who help someone dress may find one useful too. Our guide for unpaid carers covers other support.

Cost and getting help

Shoe horns are among the cheapest daily living aids. Prices vary by length and material, so compare UK pharmacies and mobility shops.

If you are struggling with dressing or other daily tasks, ask your council for a free needs assessment. An occupational therapist can suggest equipment and changes to make things easier. The NHS says equipment will be provided free if you are assessed as needing it, although some services expect you to buy small items such as shoe horns yourself. If you are disabled or have a long-term illness, you may not have to pay VAT on products designed for your disability. Ask the supplier.

For more on staying independent at home, see our home care guide.

Sources

• Falls (NHS)
• Falls prevention (Age UK)
• Household gadgets and equipment to make life easier (NHS)
• The role of occupational therapy following a fracture (West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust)
• VAT relief for disabled people (GOV.UK)