Specialised Foot Care for the Elderly
- Rob Talbot
- Nov 17
- 4 min read
As we age, our feet require more attention and care to maintain mobility and comfort. Foot problems can significantly affect the quality of life for older adults, making specialised foot care essential. This article explores effective senior foot care techniques, common foot issues in the elderly, and practical advice to keep feet healthy and pain-free.
Understanding Senior Foot Care Techniques
Taking care of feet in later years involves more than just washing and drying. Senior foot care techniques focus on prevention, treatment, and maintenance tailored to the unique needs of older adults. Here are some key practices:
Daily Inspection: Check feet every day for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. Use a mirror if necessary to see the soles.
Proper Hygiene: Wash feet with warm water and mild soap. Dry thoroughly, especially between toes, to prevent fungal infections.
Moisturising: Apply a suitable foot cream to prevent dry, cracked skin but avoid the areas between toes. Creams containing urea are particularly effective but we always advise speaking to our Podiatrist for a full assessment.
Nail Care: Trim toenails straight across to avoid ingrown nails. If nails are thick or difficult to cut, seek help from our Lancaster Podiatrist.
Footwear: Wear well-fitting shoes with good support and cushioning. Avoid tight or high-heeled shoes that can cause pressure points.
Exercise: Gentle foot exercises improve circulation and flexibility. Simple movements like toe curls and ankle rotations can be beneficial.
These techniques help reduce the risk of foot problems such as corns, calluses, fungal infections, and ulcers.
Common Foot Problems in Older Adults and How to Manage Them
Foot issues are common in the elderly due to changes in skin, circulation, and bone structure. Understanding these problems helps in managing them effectively.
1. Corns and Calluses
These are thickened areas of skin caused by pressure or friction. They can be painful and make walking difficult.
Management: Use cushioned pads to relieve pressure. Avoid cutting corns or calluses at home. Regular moisturising softens the skin.
2. Fungal Infections
Athlete’s foot and nail fungus are frequent due to reduced immunity and moisture.
Management: Keep feet dry and clean. Use antifungal powders or creams as recommended by a healthcare provider. You can obtain antifungal cream by clicking HERE.
3. Ingrown Toenails
Toenails that grow into the skin cause pain and infection.
Management: Proper nail trimming and wearing roomy shoes help prevent this. Severe cases require professional treatment.
4. Poor Circulation
Conditions like peripheral artery disease reduce blood flow, causing cold, numb feet.
Management: Regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and managing underlying health conditions improve circulation.
5. Foot Deformities
Bunions, hammertoes, and arthritis-related changes affect foot shape and function.
Management: Supportive footwear, orthotic devices, and sometimes surgery can relieve symptoms.
Regular check-ups with a podiatrist are crucial for early detection and treatment of these issues.
Can elderly get foot care on NHS?
Yes, elderly individuals can access foot care services through the NHS, but eligibility criteria apply. The NHS provides treatment for foot problems that affect mobility or cause pain, especially for those with diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or rheumatoid arthritis.
Services may include:
Nail care for thickened or ingrown nails
Treatment of corns and calluses
Management of foot ulcers and infections
Advice on footwear and foot health
However, routine foot care such as nail cutting for healthy elderly people without underlying conditions is usually not covered. Many elderly people opt for private podiatry services for regular maintenance and specialised care.
For those requiring home visits or specialised care, services like elderly foot care offer professional support tailored to individual needs.
Practical Tips for Maintaining Healthy Feet in Later Life
Maintaining foot health is achievable with consistent care and attention. Here are practical tips to incorporate into daily routines:
Inspect Feet Daily
Look for any changes or injuries. Early detection prevents complications.
Keep Feet Clean and Dry
Wash feet daily and dry carefully, especially between toes.
Moisturise Regularly
Use creams to keep skin soft but avoid between toes to prevent fungal growth.
Choose the Right Footwear
Shoes should have a wide toe box, good arch support, and non-slip soles.
Avoid Walking Barefoot
Protect feet from injury and infections by wearing slippers or shoes indoors.
Exercise Feet
Simple stretches and movements improve circulation and flexibility.
Manage Underlying Health Conditions
Control diabetes, arthritis, and circulation problems with medical advice.
Seek Professional Help When Needed
Don’t ignore persistent pain, wounds, or nail problems.
By following these tips, older adults can maintain mobility and reduce the risk of foot-related complications.
Encouraging Regular Professional Foot Care
Professional foot care is vital for elderly individuals, especially those with chronic health conditions. Podiatrists provide expert assessment, treatment, and advice tailored to each person’s needs.
Benefits of regular professional care include:
Early detection of foot problems
Treatment of infections and wounds
Custom orthotics for better support
Guidance on footwear and foot hygiene
Pain relief and improved mobility
For those with limited mobility or living in care homes, services offering home visits ensure access to specialised care without the need to travel.
Investing in professional foot care helps maintain independence and enhances overall wellbeing in later life.
Taking care of feet is an essential part of healthy ageing. By adopting senior foot care techniques and seeking professional support when necessary, older adults can enjoy greater comfort and mobility. Prioritising foot health today can prevent many problems tomorrow.
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