Putting Your Best Foot Forward: Don’t Ignore Foot Health

Family Caregivers in Raleigh, NC – Caring for Elderly Feet Can be Essential to Overall Health

The feet are some of the most overlooked parts of the body. Feet are a complex group of small bones and muscles that help to provide movement and stability. Feet are also some of the most sensitive parts of the body, as they have some of the highest concentrations of nerve-endings.

As an adult ages, feet can be one of the first problem areas in a senior’s aching body. Small things that may not even be a problem in our younger years can come back to haunt us in the later years. These things can include:

• Poor footwear – Wearing shoes too small, or those with poor support can destroy arches and muscles in the feet. Not wearing shoes with the necessary support and comfort can ultimately create problems down the road.
• Foot hygiene – Not taking care of your feet can lead to health issues in our later years. Regular cleaning and trimming of toenails are extremely important. Failing to be clean can lead to toenail problems and possible fungal infections.
• Circulation issues or injuries – Serious injuries to the foot or even ankle can cause problems later in life including poor circulation, nerve issues, or reoccurring injuries.

There are some very simple things people can do to help keep their feet healthy. These include:

• Having your feet measured every few years to make sure your shoes are fitting properly. Feet can often grow or change as we age.
• Try on shoes before wearing them to make sure they fit properly. Consider wearing new shoes around the house to break them in. Many times, shoes stretch and change shape after being worn.
• While some shoes may look great, some may be very uncomfortable. Choose comfort over style whenever possible.
• Put your feet up when you sit to improve circulation
• Stretching, wearing dry socks, and washing your feet regularly

Regular moisturizing of the skin and heels on the feet to keep them soft and supple can be important for seniors. When heels become dry and cracked, infections can find their way into the body. If your loved one has dry skin or thick callouses on the heels, soak their feet in warm water with Epsom salts added. Make sure the water isn’t hot. Let feet soak for 20-30 minutes. Take out and towel-dry. Use a pumice stone to gently rub off dead skin. Deep moisturize the heels and feet.

The articles posted on this blog are provided for general information and discussion purposes only.  These articles are not intended to suggest anything with respect to the operations or services of this office.