Feet – you either love them or hate them but looking after them is very important.
Healthy, looked after feet helps you remain independent and aids movement and activity.
However, unfortunately as you get older the foot health declines and older people become susceptible to conditions like calluses, dry skin, corns and fungal infections. As skin gets older it becomes thinner and doesn’t have the elasticity it once had which leads to crack and dryness, amongst other issues.
But getting older also means getting to your feet isn’t as easy as it once was. Mobility issues, poor eyesight all makes getting to your feet difficult. But there is always someone around to help and even the chiropodist can visit you at home.
Here’s some tips to keeping your feet in tip top condition.
Wear well-fitting shoes
Wearing well fitted comfortable shoes is the first step to good feet, as well as helping to maintain balance, avoiding falls and reducing the risk of injuries. But also ensuring foot wear doesn’t rub which can cause blisters and sores. Your shoes shouldn’t slip on and off when you walk. Buy the correct size shoes – wearing shoes that are too small can cause corns. Corns are uncomfortable and can harm the skin.
Dry your feet well
Keeping your feet clean is a must, especially between toes – but drying them well after they’ve been washed or have got wet is important for skin integrity. Your skin is more fragile when wet or damp, so to prevent damaging them any further drying them and keep them dry is a must.
Changing socks regularly and avoiding shoes that make your feet sweat can reduce the risk of damaging to your skin.
Moisturise
Whilst drying your feet it is also important to moisturise – this will prevent cracks on your heels, burning sensations and calluses. You can moisturise your feet inexpensively by using a petroleum jelly. Make it part of your bathing or showering routine – put socks or slippers on after you have applied moisturiser as it will reduce the risk of slipping over.
Keep your nails trimmed
Keeping toenails trimmed straight across level with the tip of your toe is extremely important to prevent ingrown toenails.
If you have difficulty reaching your feet, then make regular appointments with a podiatrist.
Some people especially those with dementia, can be scared or uncomfortable about having their toenails touched, podiatrists can create a more relaxing experience for them by soaking and massaging their feet before cutting and put the tv or radio on as a way of distraction whilst doing it.
Are you suffering pain in your feet?
If you have pain or discomfort in your feet, it could be an indication of an underlying condition such as arthritis, diabetes, neuropathy. If your elderly loved one is experiencing any symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, stiffness or swollen feet or ankles then it’s best to get them checked out by a doctor to rule out any potential medical causes.
Exercise regularly
Exercise is very beneficial, especially if you spend a lot of time sitting, taking gentle short walks and stretches would be helpful.
Low intensity workouts help to improve your circulation. People do find it difficult to exercise, so stretches are crucial in keeping blood flowing and good for circulation. Do consult your doctor before doing any exercise.
Foot conditions
Bunions, hammer toes, discoloured toenails, corns and calluses may not seem anything to worry about, but it is important to get them checked out especially for older people. This can help to prevent infections and other harmful developments. It may be that a simple aid like toe separators, bunion pads and ankle support can help ease discomfort.
Featured image by Freepik