Aging can bring several changes to the feet that may impact comfort and mobility. As skin naturally loses elasticity and moisture, dryness and cracked heels can develop, sometimes leading to infection, if not properly managed. Ligaments may stretch over time, lowering the arch and contributing to flat feet, which often cause pain, swelling, and reduced stability. Toes may also be affected, with hammertoes forming from years of pressure, resulting in corns, calluses, and pain. Toenails often become thicker, brittle, and harder to trim. Circulatory problems may lead to swelling, which can affect mobility. A chiropodist can assess these age-related foot changes, provide guidance on supportive footwear, and manage skin and nail conditions. If you are a senior experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist to help improve and maintain your foot health.

Foot problems can become increasingly common as we age, making everyday foot care especially important. To learn more about maintaining proper foot health, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Foot Problems

Certain foot problems may be more likely to affect older adults. 

Some examples of foot conditions that can be common in older adults include: 

• Dry, cracked skin
• Calluses and corns
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Deformities such as bunions or hammertoes
• Fungal infections
• Plantar warts

Systemic conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, are also more likely to affect older people and manifest symptoms in the feet and ankles. 

Daily Foot Care Tips

Having a daily foot care routine can help detect problems early on and prevent future issues. 

Things that you can do at home to care for your feet include: 

• Washing the feet daily with warm water, drying them thoroughly, and then applying a moisturizer
• Trimming the toenails straight across and not too short to prevent ingrown toenails
• Performing daily foot exercises to improve foot strength and mobility
• Wearing shoes when walking to avoid injury
• Inspecting the feet daily for any cuts, scrapes, sores, or other abnormalities and seeking prompt treatment if any problems are discovered 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.