A Simple Guide to Foot Care for Seniors

Reviewed by Tacey Lancaster, RN

While getting older has its benefits, one struggle that many seniors grapple with is issues with their feet.

In fact, according to a 2018 review, as many as 71 to 87 percent of seniors  are afflicted with some kind of foot disorder or pain. When left untreated, this can lead to:

•     a struggle to balance while standing or walking
•     a greater risk of falling
•     difficulty putting shoes on
•     fractures
•     a generally lower quality of life

 

To prevent small issues from transforming into greater health problems, be sure to follow this guide to foot care for seniors.

As you get older, even small issues like a blister or minor fungal infection can evolve into more serious problems that require medical care. To prevent this from happening, first and foremost, be sure to prioritize standard hygienic practices for your feet.

 

A well-rounded foot care routine includes:

 

•     washing your feet with soap and water
•     moisturizing your feet with lotion
•     trimming your toenails on a regular basis

 

To go the extra mile, you may even choose to:

 

•     invest in a foot bath to soak and clean your feet more thoroughly
•     purchase lotion specifically formulated for dry feet
•     seek out foot massages to promote circulation

 

In sum, a dedicated foot care routine can help seniors avoid common foot problems including dryness and nail discoloration .

 

Tip: If you are unable to reach your feet, be sure to enlist the help of a caregiver to incorporate these practices into your general care plan.

The types of footwear you use have a major bearing on the overall health of your feet.

 

First, if your shoes are too big, you may have trouble balancing. Meanwhile, if your shoes are too small/narrow, your circulation may be compromised and the severity of existing bunions can become worse. Moreover, both instances can contribute to the development of blisters and other kinds of discomfort and pain.

 

Next, for general safety, seniors are advised against wearing shoes with heels, also for the sake of balance. They should also avoid footwear with open toes and other types of shoes or sandals that aren’t fully and securely attached to the feet.

 

Most importantly, be sure to wear shoes with adequate support for your arches and ankles to support balance, maintain a functional gait, and decrease your risk of falling.

According to a 2019 study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, seniors are hindered on three fronts when it comes to practicing proper foot care:

 

• physical factors, such as changes in nail composition
• internal factors, such as age-related complications to care for oneself
• external factors, such as limited access to medical care or not consulting a physician soon enough

 

While we have looked at the first two impediments in the sections above, we would like to emphasize the importance of seeking medical help at the onset of foot discomfort.

 

Doing so is especially pertinent if you:

 

•     are unable to care for your feet yourself
•     live a sedentary lifestyle or can no longer walk/need assistance walking
•     have diabetes, which may lead to ulcers
•     have psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis

 

As we noted before, seemingly small issues can advance into more serious foot health problems that can reduce your overall quality of life. As with many other aspects of your greater health, it’s essential to be proactive rather than reactive and to address any issues at the onset of symptoms.

 

For these reasons, be sure to discuss any foot pain or abnormalities with your doctor.