The southern suburbs of Chennai — Tambaram, Chromepet, Pallavaram, Selaiyur, Perungalathur, Hasthinapuram, Sanatorium and East Tambaram — are home to many retired families and senior citizens. If you're looking after a parent with diabetes, heel pain or swollen feet in these areas, finding genuine diabetic footwear nearby can be difficult. This guide explains what to buy and the easiest ways to get it.
Who in your family needs diabetic or orthopedic footwear?
- Parents with diabetes — especially if they have numbness, tingling or a past foot wound (neuropathy guide).
- Anyone with heel pain or heel spur, often worst in the morning (heel spur guide).
- Elders with swollen feet or arthritis who struggle with buckles.
- Family members who walk daily for health in Tambaram's parks and lakesides.
What to choose for senior citizens
- Wide velcro fastening — easy to wear without bending much. The AJL Majestic for women and adjustable velcro sandals such as the AJM 09 for men are popular.
- Cushioned MCP footbed to make up for the thinning heel pad.
- Non-slip sole — wet bathroom and kitchen floors cause many falls.
- Closed back or secure heel strap — backless slippers are a trip hazard.
- Roomy toe box for bunions and swelling.
Read our full footwear for elderly parents checklist.
Three easy ways to get your pair
1. Order online with Cash on Delivery
Browse men's and women's footwear, choose the size and pay when it arrives. UPI and cards are also accepted.
2. Get sizing help on WhatsApp first
Measure your parent's foot length in centimetres (how to measure), send it to us with their concern (diabetes, heel pain, swelling), and we'll suggest suitable models that are actually in stock.
3. Visit the store
Our store is at Medavakkam Main Road, Adambakkam — a drive from the Tambaram belt via GST Road towards Pallavaram and Alandur or via Medavakkam. Bring your parent along for a fitting if possible. We're open Mon–Sat 9:30 AM–9:30 PM.
Exchanges if the size isn't right
Unused pairs in original packaging can be exchanged within 7 days of delivery — so ordering for an elderly parent is low-risk. See our refund policy.
Home physiotherapy too
If your parent is recovering from surgery, a fall or long-term knee or back pain, ask us about home-visit physiotherapy. Share your area and we'll confirm whether a visit can be arranged.
Signs your parent's current footwear is hurting them
Many elders don't complain — they simply walk less. Watch for:
- Shuffling or walking more slowly than before
- Red marks or indentations on the feet after removing footwear
- Holding furniture or walls for balance at home
- Avoiding walks they used to enjoy, such as visits to the local temple or park
- Thin, flattened chappals with a smooth, worn sole
- Walking barefoot indoors because their footwear is uncomfortable
Any of these is a good reason to upgrade to cushioned, supportive footwear with a secure back and non-slip sole.
A simple routine for elders at home
- Footwear on from the first step — keep a pair beside the bed.
- Daily foot check after the bath, with help if needed (daily foot care).
- Short walks spread through the day rather than one long walk.
- Feet up for 15 minutes in the afternoon if they swell.
- Night light between the bedroom and bathroom to prevent falls.
Families from Tambaram, Chromepet, Pallavaram, Selaiyur, Perungalathur, Hasthinapuram, Sanatorium, Madambakkam, Rajakilpakkam and Medavakkam regularly order from us for their parents — usually one outdoor pair and one home pair.
Key takeaways
- For elders, choose velcro + cushioned footbed + non-slip sole + secure back.
- Measure feet first, then order online or visit.
- 7-day exchange makes it easy to get the right size.
