As people age, their feet undergo various changes that can affect mobility and overall well-being. Seniors often experience dryness, thinner skin, and thickened toenails, which may lead to discomfort and other foot problems. Fungal infections are common, and the feet may change in size, requiring adjustments in footwear. Proper foot care for seniors becomes especially important to maintain foot health and prevent complications. Regular visits to a chiropodist can help manage these changes effectively. A chiropodist can offer professional guidance on appropriate footwear, provide custom orthotic devices, and address issues such as nail disorders and dry skin. They can also perform minor procedures, like trimming thickened nails or treating corns and calluses, to prevent further problems. If you are an older adult with a foot problem, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for advice.

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.