Foot Care for the Elderly

As an elderly patient, it is important that you pay special attention to your feet with regard to foot hygiene, the cutting of nails, the type of sock and stockings/hosiery worn, type of shoe and other matters concerning the feet.

Nails

Your nails should be attended to on a regular basis using a pair of ordinary nail clippers. The nails of the elderly are usually quite thick in many cases and therefore it would be best to do nail cutting after bath time as the nail would be much easier to cut. Nails should be cut making sure that you follow the length and shape of the toe so as to minimize damage to the nail during the regrowth stage. Never probe the nail groove or any part of the nail.

Hygiene

Your feet should be washed daily in tepid water using mild toilet soap. After washing, the feet should be carefully rinsed in plain water and properly dried, paying special attention to between the toes.

If you have sweaty feet normally, then clean the feet, dry them and apply talcum powder. If you suffer from dry feet, then use of a cream will help to maintain the feet. It is important that you change to a clean pair of socks/stockings every day.

Heat and Cold

Due to age you many have problems with circulation and because of this you should avoid very hot baths, electric blankets should be turned off at bedtime and you should not sit too close to fireplaces or heaters.

Footwear

Shoes must be chosen carefully. It is best to have lace-up and soft-upper shoes so that your feet will be held firmly during walking. To be sure that the shoes are suited to your feet, test walk on a solid area of the store, not on the carpeted floor.

It is best to have your feet measured when buying shoes. Feet must be measured when standing, as this is when the true size is known.

It is important that you wear socks/stockings that will not restrict the movement of the foot. Avoid going barefoot.

First-Aid

If any minor injury should happen to you (e.g. cuts, bruises) clean the area and apply a mild antiseptic cream. Do not apply adhesive strappings directly to the area or wrap the strapping around toes, as this will restrict circulation.

Blisters on the feet should be left alone and should not be punctured (pricked) to release the fluid but should be left to dry up on their own. Should they open of their own accord and discharge their contents, dress with an antiseptic dressing.

It will be necessary to visit your Practitioner or GP if the injury is not responding to the treatment.

Unhealthy Feet

If you notice any discharge forming from the break in the skin, from a nail or corn it is important that you visit your Practitioner. If there is pain, itching, swelling or colour changes in the feet or legs, visit the Practitioner.

If you suffer from diabetes, it is vitally important that you see a Foot Health Practitioner at least once a year for a check up.