How To Care For Senior Feet

Author

The Foot Nurse

For more information about the author, click to view their website: The Foot Nurse

Posted on

Jul 29, 2024

Book/Edition

Minnesota - Twin Cities Metro Area

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This makes it essential for family caregivers to keep a close eye on their loved one’s feet to ensure proper senior foot care.  If your loved one is unable to care for their own feet, family caregivers should make it a part of their regular routine to inspect feet and nails. A mild soap should be used to wash their feet before drying them thoroughly and smoothing on lotion to prevent dry skin. Toenails should be trimmed regularly.  When trimming toenails, do it after a bath, shower, or foot soak so the toenails are softened. Sanitize nail clippers with rubbing alcohol or by boiling them and wash your hands before you begin. Trim nails straight across. Wash hands after you finish the nail trim. Do not cut calluses on the nail bed or feet. 

In addition to a regular cleaning ritual, your loved one should wear clean cotton socks with properly fitted shoes. When seated, they should elevate their feet with a cushion or footstool to prevent fluid buildup. If possible, your loved one should try to slowly and safely increase their physical activity levels to help promote good circulation in their feet and legs.

When to Get Extra Help for Senior Feet

When taking care of a senior’s feet, you may come across signs and symptoms that suggest more serious foot issues. Contact your loved one’s primary care physician or a podiatrist if you spot any of the following warning signs: 

In-grown toenails

Brittle or discolored toenails

Tingling or burning in the feet

Cold, numb, or discolored feet

Pain in the feet or ankles

Blisters

Cracked skin

Sores or wounds

Diabetes and Senior Foot Care

When caring for a senior with diabetes, it is even more important to ensure proper senior foot care. Diabetic neuropathy damages nerves in the feet, reducing feeling and making it harder for your loved one to notice small injuries. Left untreated, these undetected minor injuries can lead to serious infections and gangrene, and may even result in a need for amputation.  In addition to the main foot care tips above, it is important that a diabetic’s feet be checked every day for any small issue or injury. Feet should be washed daily, and your loved one should always wear socks and shoes – even if they don’t leave the house.  For further information and help contact The Foot Nurse at 651-829-3922 or visit our website at www.thefootnurse.net.


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Local Services By This Author

The Foot Nurse

Foot Care , , Minnesota,

If You Have Feet, We Can Help You!*Are you struggling with foot pain?*Are you worried about Covid-19 and don't want to leave your home?*Do yhou have pain or numbness in your feet?*Is mobility important to you?*Do you have problems reaching your feet?*Are you diabetic or have other chronic conditions?*Do you want assistance finding property footwear?*Are you embarrassed by your feet?*Are your toenails to thick to cut yourself?*Does your podiatrist no longer service routine nail care?Our qualified nurses can help!  Call us today at 651-829-3944 or visit www.footcare@thefootnurse.net