Helping take care of an elderly person’s feet is very important for their overall health and well being. Toenails should be trimmed and filed, and feet should be moisturized. A warm foot bath will not only be relaxing, but relieve achy feet and help increase blood flow. Be sure to keep any foot hygiene tools and equipment sanitized. Never share these tools and equipment with anyone. Socks and shoes need to fit properly, and never be too tight. Socks should always be washed after every use to avoid fungi or infections from developing. Feet should be checked daily for wounds, cracked skin, bleeding sores and discolored nails. These can all be indicators of an infection. A podiatrist should be part of any elderly person’s health care team, and regular check ups and examinations can help avoid problems in the future.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Plaza Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Baltimore, Lutherville, and Dundalk, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.