As we age, our feet experience the effects of age-related wear and tear. This can increase the risk of developing various foot and ankle problems, so it becomes increasingly important to take good care of the feet. One of the most important aspects of proper foot care is wearing the right shoes. Not only does wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes make a foot or ankle injury less likely, it also reduces the risk of falling. Look for shoes that have a firm, non-slip sole and adequate cushioning. You should avoid walking barefoot, in slippers or flip-flops, or with only socks on. Wearing shoes with high heels taller than one inch is also not suggested, as excessively high heels can put too much pressure on the toes and balls of the feet. To learn more about elderly foot care, please speak with a podiatrist.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
FAQs
Wear shoes with a firm sole that doesn't slip. Wear walking shoes. Don't wear shoes with heels taller than 1 inch. Don't wear slippers or flip-flops, even at home.
What is the best kind of footwear to reduce the risk of falls in the elderly? ›
Thinner, low-heeled shoes provide better stability while walking and help with posture and balance.
What footwear do podiatrists recommend? ›
ALWAYS CHOOSE SNEAKERS FOR WALKING OR RUNNING
While it may seem obvious to wear sneakers for walking and running, some people still don't follow this tip and it can cause problems later on. Podiatrists advocate for people wearing sneakers as often as possible as they allow for maximum support and protection.
What are the foot complaints of the elderly? ›
If good routine foot care is not practised, feet can start to show signs of ageing at any age, but generally it is most common from your fifties onwards. General signs of ageing feet include more regular aches and pains, developing bunions, signs of clawing of the toes along with general circulatory problems.
What is unsafe footwear for the elderly? ›
Multiple factors related to footwear can contribute to falls among seniors, including: Worn treads or a too-smooth outsole that increases fall risk on smooth surfaces. Shoes that are too big or bulky. Being unaware that shoes are too loose, due to decreased sensation in the feet. Shoes that contribute to balance issues.
What to soak elderly feet in? ›
A foot soak is more than just relaxing with your feet in warm or hot water. It's what you add to the water that makes a foot soak beneficial. The two main ingredients used in a foot soak are Epsom salt and vinegar.
How do you get rid of dead skin on elderly feet? ›
Soak the feet in warm water to soften the dead skin. Wet the pumice stone or foot file with warm water. Gently rub the pumice stone or foot file over the dead skin or callus. Use circular motions with a pumice stone and gentle back-and-forth motions with a foot file.
Why do podiatrists not like Skechers? ›
However, as a podiatrist, I frequently see patients with plantar fasciitis or heel pain linked to wearing Skechers. Their memory foam technology, while cushioned, often lacks the rigidity needed for proper stability and support, leading to overpronation and uneven weight distribution.
Are Crocs good for your feet? ›
Crocs are lightweight, breathable, and offer plenty of room, which makes them good for gyms and public showers, post-pedicure, running outside for a minute, and more. That said, Crocs lack arch support, so exercising, walking for an extended period of time, or working in them is not recommended by foot specialists.
What shoes to wear to avoid foot pain? ›
The Basics ---
Avoid high heels and narrow shoes. Instead, look for shoes with thick soles and cushioning.
Senior Self-Care for Feet
Using mild soaps followed with lotion helps keep the skin from drying out, cracking, and itching. Ensuring the feet remain dry helps to fight off fungal infections as well and keeping the feet warm can aid in circulation.
What is geriatric foot? ›
Geriatric foot problems are classified as orthopedic conditions - primarily caused by the aging process. Over time the skin can lose elasticity and moisture, the bones can become brittle, and cartilage can harden – leaving the joints less flexible.
Why do my grandmas' feet hurt? ›
One in three adults over the age of 65 experience foot pain, stiffness, or aching. Some of the most common foot problems in older adults include bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, ingrown, thickened or discolored nails, diabetic foot conditions, poor circulation, and heel pain.
What type of footwear is best to avoid trips and falls? ›
Because many older people wear suboptimal shoes, maximizing safe shoe use may offer an effective fall prevention strategy. Based on findings of a systematic literature review, older people should wear shoes with low heels and firm slip-resistant soles both inside and outside the home'.
What is the suggested footwear for preventing falls and slips? ›
Look for shoes designed for slip resistance, often containing special outsole patterns designed to help provide extra grip and reduce slipping on hazardous surfaces. Shoes with deeper grooves and larger tread areas offer more secure support and stability.
What kind of footwear and clothing will help to prevent falls? ›
Wear sensible shoes
Consider changing your footwear as part of your fall prevention plan. High heels, floppy slippers and shoes with slick soles can make you slip, stumble and fall. So can walking in your stocking feet. Instead, wear properly fitting, sturdy, flat shoes with nonskid soles.
What should I wear to prevent falls? ›
Avoid slippers and flip-flops since they are poor fitting and can be dangerous; Wear footwear that has a lot of contact with the ground, such as shoes with a flat or low wide heel; The sole of your footwear should have a good grip. Wear shoes with a non-slip sole in your home rather than socks or slippers.
As we age, our feet experience the effects of age-related wear and tear. This can increase the risk of developing various foot and ankle problems, so it becomes increasingly important to take good care of the feet. One of the most important aspects of proper foot care is wearing the right shoes. Not only does wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes make a foot or ankle injury less likely, it also reduces the risk of falling. Look for shoes that have a firm, non-slip sole and adequate cushioning. You should avoid walking barefoot, in slippers or flip-flops, or with only socks on. Wearing shoes with high heels taller than one inch is also not suggested, as excessively high heels can put too much pressure on the toes and balls of the feet. To learn more about elderly foot care, please speak with a podiatrist. 