Foot care is important for people of all ages, but it becomes even more important in old age. Seniors are more prone to foot problems such as calluses, corns, calluses and ingrown toenails, which can cause pain and discomfort. In this guide, you can find out more about foot care for seniors with helpful tips and tricks to help you walk pain-free for as long as possible!
Regular foot hygiene and checks
Regular foot inspections are essential in order to detect changes and signs of changes in the foot at an early stage. Seniors should therefore check their feet at least once a week for redness, swelling, calluses and corns. If there are any abnormalities, it is important to consult a doctor or podiatrist. Please note: A chiropodist is not medically trained. In case of pain, consult a doctor or podiatrist immediately as they have the necessary medical knowledge.
The right footwear - essential for healthy feet
Comfortable and well-fitting shoes are particularly important to avoid pain and pressure points. Look for shoes with good cushioning, non-slip soles and enough room for your toes. The choice of material is also particularly important. Avoid artificial and therefore often non-breathable materials. Feet sweat in these synthetic materials, which can lead to smelly feet and fungal growth. Orthopaedic shoes can also be an option, especially if you have foot problems such as flat feet or heel spurs.
Foot baths & foot massages
A warm foot bath can work wonders to relax tired and aching feet. Seniors should regularly soak their feet in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes to promote circulation and relieve pain. In addition to warm water, special additives can be purchased at the drugstore or pharmacy. These often contain substances that soften calluses, making it easier to treat and care for the feet afterwards. A gentle massage with a moisturizing foot cream can also help to relax and combat dry skin.
Podiatrists generally recommend applying cream to the feet once a day. Make sure that the cream contains as many natural ingredients as possible. Urea, shea butter and glycerine are important components of high-quality foot creams. After applying the cream, always make sure that no cream residue remains between the toes. Rub the foot cream in well and allow it to absorb before putting on socks. Otherwise, a lot of product will end up in your socks and will not be absorbed into your stressed feet as desired.
Foot care for seniors: It is important that the feet are dry
Moisture can lead to infections and athlete's foot, so it is important to keep feet dry. Seniors should dry their feet daily after showering or bathing, especially between the toes, and wear breathable socks and shoes.
How often should you have foot care for seniors?
It is recommended that seniors visit a trained pedicurist every four to eight weeks, depending on individual needs and their personal foot health. Regular appointments help to identify problems early and prevent potential complaints. Please note that medical foot care (podiatry) and chiropody are two different disciplines and professions.
As soon as you have pathologically altered feet (i.e. feet that are not healthy), please only consult podiatrists. They have medical training and can help you professionally. Chiropodists, on the other hand, do not need to have any training; a weekend course is sufficient. Chiropodists take care of healthy feet and work more in the cosmetic field (painting toenails, foot baths, foot massages, etc.).
Are foot baths also suitable for diabetics?
Foot baths can also be beneficial for diabetics. However, care should be taken as diabetics may have reduced sensitivity in their feet. Therefore, the water temperature should be checked before immersing the feet to avoid burns. It is also advisable to dry your feet thoroughly after the bath to prevent infections. Again, pay particular attention to the spaces between your toes!
How can you avoid ingrown toenails?
To avoid ingrown toenails, it is important to cut your nails regularly and make sure that they are cut straight and not too short. Many people cut their toenails round rather than straight, which means that the corners can become ingrown particularly easily. This is a real pain. Wear comfortable shoes with enough room for the toes to reduce pressure on the nails.
Beware of roll nails: Roll nails are ingrown nails that curl into the flesh at the ends. They are extremely painful and can even cause the flesh to bleed, as the flesh is cut in the curled areas. These nails should not be cut by people who are not experts! The massive tension can cause the nail to splinter or even tear viciously. As soon as you notice signs of curling nails, you should urgently make an appointment with a podiatrist in your area. Find out more in our guide article "Healthy ageing: Staying active and vital into old age" to find out how you can make your life healthier in old age in addition to foot care!
Can you treat calluses, cracks, calluses and corns yourself?
It is possible to treat calluses, cracks, calluses and corns yourself by gently removing the thickened skin with a file or pumice stone. However, seniors should always consult a doctor or podiatrist if they experience pain or are unsure about the treatment. Also make sure that you do not use "grinding tools" that are too coarse. High-quality glass arrows with one rough and one soft side are best. Never remove too much at once. This can lead to pain or even new cracks in the sole of the foot. Experts therefore recommend gentle removal and, above all, daily creaming for feet that are prone to calluses and cracks.
Foot care for seniors is an important aspect of maintaining mobility and quality of life in old age. Regular foot inspections, the right footwear, relaxing foot baths and massages, careful nail care and keeping feet dry are essential steps to promote healthy and pain-free feet. By following these tips, seniors can stay active and maintain their independence.
