How significant is elderly foot care? Elderly foot self-care is difficult due to internal factors related to aging and physical factors such as changes in nail structure. Poor foot health is not only by aging, but there might be some underlying health conditions. Foot health is promoted and maintained through self-care. Foot problems are prevalent in older people, but women are likely to suffer more. There has been an emphasis on people to adapt to their lifestyles and take control of their health to reduce the chances of developing aging health effects. With age, the fatty padding in the feet wears down, and the feet become wide as they flatten. These cause a simple injury to the feet, impair their function.
Senior Foot Care Tips
- Keep the feet clean
Elderly feet need thorough cleaning several times a week. The cleaning is done outside the bathroom to maintain good foot hygiene and prevent bacterial, fungal, and viral infections.
Use soap, warm water, and a washcloth. Cleaning the feet at night promotes relaxation.
- Moisturize the feet
The older we get, our skin becomes drier, leaving it vulnerable to open sores from breaking, cracking, and flaking of the skin. After thorough washing and drying the feet, use foot lotions that lock in moisture to keep the skin soft and supple.
- Toenail cutting for the elderly
Overgrown toenails interfere with stable walking. Toe trimming is an important practice for feet care. Nail care for the elderly can be done at home, but if they are paranoid or uncomfortable its best to visit a podiatrist since they offer elderly foot care services. The latter is encouraged, especially if the senior has underlying health conditions that may affect their feet. Visiting a podiatrist ensures feet problems are detected and dealt with in time.
If you are dealing with an elderly loved one with foot issues, you may want to seek help from a foot and ankle doctor. Feel free to contact our office to make an appointment with our podiatrist. Our foot and ankle doctor, Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale, can provide you with the care you need to keep you pain-free on your feet.
- Proper fitting footwear
Improper footwear has been identified as a major contributor to falls among seniors. The health of the feet is impacted by the footwear one wears. Shoes are important for security and balance when walking. Too tight or loose shoes can rub on the feet, causing blisters, sores, and other foot ailments which can easily impair your ability to walk.
The footwear should be comfortable to support your arch type and the heel should not be higher than 1 inch.
- Foot exercises
Seniors do not move around a lot, so foot exercises are the way to go. Encourage exercises that promote ankle flexibility and balance.
- Encourage wearing of socks
Seniors have poor circulation in their feet, so encourage wearing of breathable cotton socks for warmth and comfort.
Foot self-care and self-management should be encouraged to prevent foot problems for seniors. The elderly need to be advised, supported, and educated on how to maintain healthy feet. It is vital to visit a foot care professional regularly for medical pedicures and examination of the feet with recommendations on best foot-care practices.
