As we age, it becomes all the more important to show some love and care towards our feet. After years of supporting us through every walk of life, they deserve some extra attention. Healthy feet are the cornerstone of mobility and independent living for seniors. In this blog post, we’ll explore some expert-recommended foot care tips for the elderly, enabling them to maintain an active, fulfilling lifestyle.
Why Foot Care Matters More With Age
Foot health tends to deteriorate with age, and this can interfere with a senior’s mobility and overall quality of life. Age brings about changes in the shape of the feet, decrease in padding on the soles, and increase in foot-related conditions such as arthritis, corns, and bunions. Hence, foot care becomes an increasingly critical aspect of health as one grows older.
The Cornerstones Of Senior Foot Care
- Regular Examinations are Key: Regular foot check-ups are an essential part of senior foot care. Dr Ira Bernstein, an experienced podiatrist, underscores the value of routine self-exams. He advises, “Seniors should inspect their feet daily for any signs of cuts, blisters, corns, or unusual changes like discolouration or swelling.”
However, self-examinations should not replace professional foot evaluations. It’s recommended seniors see a podiatrist at least once a year. Professional foot examinations can identify underlying problems that may go unnoticed in a self-check.
- Choosing the Right Footwear: A perfect pair of shoes can make all the difference! Wearing ill-fitting shoes can exacerbate existing foot issues and contribute to new ones. Comfort, not style, should be the determining factor when seniors choose footwear.
It’s best to go shoe shopping later in the day, when the feet are naturally more swollen. The shoes should fit well, provide good arch support, and be neither too tight nor too loose. According to Dr Ira Bernstein, footwear choice is a critical factor affecting foot health and comfort for seniors.
Practical Foot Care Tips
- Staying on Top of the Basics: Maintaining foot hygiene is crucial. Washing feet regularly, drying them thoroughly to prevent fungal infections, and keeping nails trimmed and neat are simple steps towards better foot health. Applying lotion can help prevent dryness and cracking, but avoid using it between the toes, as it can encourage fungal growth.
- Stretch and Move: Including gentle foot and ankle exercises in daily routines can keep feet supple and pain-free. Flexing, stretching, and rotating the ankles, and wiggling the toes are some straightforward exercises that can be done while seated. Remember, if any exercise causes discomfort, stop doing it and consult a healthcare provider.
Healthy Feet For An Active Life
The Road to Independence: Proper foot care plays a significant role in ensuring seniors maintain their mobility and continue to live independently. Simple daily routines combined with regular professional check-ups create a robust strategy for foot health.
Above everything else, seniors should not ignore persistent foot pain. As put succinctly by Dr Ira Bernstein, “Continuous discomfort is not a normal part of aging and should be addressed immediately.”
When it comes to foot care, seniors need not walk the path alone. With holistic foot care, conversations with professionals, and a little bit of self-love, our feet can continue to support us – carrying us confidently forward into our golden years.
