Why elderly foot care should be a priority?
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You may think a great deal about your overall health and how to stay
healthy, but you might forget about your feet. The truth is, if your feet
aren’t healthy, you can find yourself immobile and housebound or even worse.
Common Foot Problems for Seniors
As people grow older, foot complaints become more and more common. These issues can range from bunions to hammertoes and even problems due to diabetes.
Some of the most common issues include:
- Heel pain
- Ingrown Toenails
- Corns
- Calluses
- Bunions
- Deformities
Senior Foot Care
These issues can limit mobility and, if combined with other mobility issues, they can
keep you off your feet for extended periods of time. You may find yourself on a
scooter or in a wheelchair. The good news is there is a lot of foot care for
the elderly that you can take advantage of, so you don’t find yourself in this
situation.
When it comes to taking care of your feet, you need to consider Senior toenail care, heel care, and other areas of the feet, as foot problems in the elderly can occur in any part of the foot.
As a person ages, it can become more difficult to maintain their own feet and nails.
That’s why as their loved one or caregiver, it may fall to you to take over the
job. You’ll want to watch for discoloration in the foot or toenails, sores or
wounds that aren’t healing, and tingling or a burning sensation in the feet.
If you notice discoloration or your loved one complains about a burning sensation, you
will want to take them to their doctor be make sure these are not signs of
complications from diabetes or other serious conditions such as gout or
circulatory issues.
Once you’ve established there are no serious issues, you need to have a checklist of
things to do to avoid Senior Foot Care foot problems. This checklist should include the
following:
- Use a footstool when seated to elevate their feet.
- Always dry the feet completely.
- Make sure shoes and socks fit correctly.
- Trim toenails on a regular basis.
- Use lotion on the feet.
Nail care for the elderly is especially important, as improperly trimmed nails can lead to an infection or ingrown toenail. So, when it comes to toenail cutting for the older adults, be sure to do it in a well-lighted area and after your loved one has taken a bath or shower so their nails are easier to cut.
Finally, foot pain in the Senior Foot Care should not be ignored. This can be a sign of a serious condition. If your loved one is experiencing foot pain, be sure to take them to
their primary care physician as soon as possible.
Seeking Treatment
If you’ve been searching for Foot Doctor for your foot needs, take time to meet with the Podiatry Group of Georgia. Our doctor has the experience and knowledge you need to help your feet and ankles feel their best. Give us a call today and set up an appointment for your initial consultation.
Having healthy feet is a vital component to having a good quality of life as one ages. Keeping your feet or your loved one’s feet in good shape isn’t difficult. It just takes a little planning and maintenance.
Call Our Marietta, Georgia Office Today at 404-806-3731 or Book your appointment online now!
Proudly Serving Marietta and Atlanta Area!