Foot health and occupation: challenges, understanding and support for older adults
The UK workforce is aging, with many older adults working in roles that require long periods of standing or walking. These physical demands can worsen age‑related changes in the feet, leading to pain, discomfort and reduced quality of life. Foot and ankle problems are common in active occupations and increase the risk of job loss in people over 50 years. Despite this, little research has explored how foot health, ageing and occupational demands interact. This project addresses this gap by investigating how foot health affects older workers’ ability to stay active and engaged in work, leisure, and social life. It will explore the following research questions (RQ):
- Does self-reported foot health in older workers relate to Quality of Life (work, leisure, and social)?
- Does measured foot health differ in older workers who have active roles and those who don’t?
- What are barriers and facilitators for older workers who have active roles to look after their foot health?
This is a two-year project funded by Great Foundations.
Team