Feet are one of the most overlooked parts of the body, but they play one of the most crucial roles in our daily lives. Foot care is vital when it comes to mobility and comfort during day-to-day activities. As you get older you become more susceptible to various health issues and discomfort due to the changing of your body. Your feet flatten and become wider, skin begins to thin, and circulation decreases with age. All this makes seniors more susceptible to foot pain and discomfort.
In this blog post, we explore the reasons why senior foot care deserves special attention. Along with that, we have compiled a list of foot care tips that will help to maintain comfort and mobility which can easily be added to your daily routine. Incorporate these practices into your routine to promote foot health and general well-being.
Wash Your Feet Daily
The easiest way to promote foot hygiene is through daily bathing. Good foot hygiene is key to preventing bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. So, make washing your feet part of your daily routine. As a bonus, bathing promotes relaxation, so if it is done at night you may have a better night's sleep.
Bathing can be done in the shower simply with warm water and soap or out of the shower with a soapy washcloth if need be. Be mindful of how long you soak your feet in warm water as overexposure can dry the skin. Lastly, pat your feet dry, and don’t forget to get between your toes!
Moisturize Your Feet
An important addition to your routine should be applying moisturizer to your feet. Foot lotions should be applied after you have washed and thoroughly dried your feet, making this the last step in your foot care routine. After moisturizing your feet, put on a breathable sock to help lock in the moisture. The sock will also prevent slips and falls as your feet will be slippery after applying the lotion.
When your skin is dry it is prone to cracking and flaking, which will cause discomfort, itchiness, and irritation. These moisturizing tips will help to prevent cracking as foot lotion stops the skin from drying out, keeping the feet smooth and plump.
Trim Your Nails
Proper toenail care is another important part of foot care. Neglecting overgrown and ingrown toenails will lead to irritation and pain, which may lessen mobility and create unstable walking. Be sure to follow these steps to safely and effectively trim your toenails.
First, be sure to use clean toenail clippers or scissors to prevent infections. The second step is to trim toenails straight across and avoid cutting corners, preventing ingrown toenails from occurring. Lastly, use an emery board or nail file to smooth rough edges after trimming, this will stop the nail from splintering. An added tip is to soak your feet in warm water before trimming to loosen the nails and make things more comfortable.
If you have trouble trimming your toes yourself you should locate a nail care clinic that specializes in senior feet, for example, your local podiatrist or nail salon. If done incorrectly, trimming your toenails may make your pain worse, so ask for help if needed.
Promote Circulation
Older adults who suffer from chronic illnesses such as diabetes and arthritis may have limited mobility in the feet and ankles. Promoting circulation in the lower leg can help to alleviate pain, increase blood flow, and decrease swelling.
To increase circulation try to elevate your feet whenever possible. If you find yourself sitting for extended periods try to wiggle your toes and rotate your ankles to get your blood moving. Massaging the area and light exercise will also help to promote circulation which sends oxygen and nutrients to your feet, which is essential to your overall health.
The condition of your feet can serve as a warning sign for more serious health issues, such as heart disease or arthritis. If your foot pain, swelling, or discomfort remains persistent consult a podiatrist or healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment options.
Comfortable and Supportive Footwear
Daily routine is key to increasing overall comfort and well-being, but footwear is just as important. Proper footwear might be what you are missing. Mobility, balance, and comfort can all come down to the type of shoe on your foot.
Consider the quality and type of shoe you are wearing when addressing pain and discomfort. Arch support, proper fit, and cushioning are key to the quality of your footwear. Shoes that are too small, worn down, or too tight can cause blisters and bunions. Seniors should also avoid wearing high heels, and opt for a shoe with good arch support.
Consult with a podiatrist to help find the best supportive shoes tailored to your needs. Supportive footwear is essential for seniors with pre-existing foot conditions and should be worn to prevent foot pain and promote overall foot health.
Protect Your Feet
Foot care is not just about pampering yourself, it is a crucial aspect of maintaining health and mobility. Foot hygiene and foot care are essential to seniors as they help to prevent pain and discomfort, and increase mobility.
If you have questions about supportive footwear, or foot hygiene, or have any concerns regarding senior foot care please contact one of our offices. We are located in various cities throughout South Carolina and Georgia, and our expert podiatrists are happy to answer any questions regarding senior foot care.