As an individual ages, it becomes even more essential that they are able to maintain proper foot health. This is because if a senior citizen has significantly unhealthy feet, their freedom and independence will be substantially reduced. However, as an individual ages, they also become more susceptible to experiencing foot afflictions. Therefore, senior citizens who want to take extra care of their health should be proactive in maintaining good foot care. One way to do this is to have a set time daily or once each week to examine the feet. The senior can do this by themselves or by asking for the help of a friend. Simply examine the foot for any noticeable problems including redness, swelling, deformations, or complications in the toenails. Scheduling a kind of regular inspection can be helpful for seniors because it enables them to check for any potential problems before they become exacerbated with time. Additionally, to be proactive, seniors can be sure that the shoes that they are wearing are not restrictive or too tight. Wearing properly fitted footwear is essential when an individual ages because ill-fitting shoes can reduce blood circulation and facilitate other troublesome foot afflictions. If you are a senior, be especially diligent when shoe shopping and ask for assistance in finding the best fitting shoes for you. These are just some of many potential proactive foot care tips for seniors. For more, contact a podiatrist.
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 William Street 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 one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
