Imagine working hard for 65 years or more and never being taken seriously. That’s likely how our feet might feel during the golden years of life. Your feet are an integral part of infancy, childhood, adulthood and your senior years. Contrary to popular belief, aches and pain don’t have to be synonymous with growing older. When you maintain a healthy lifestyle your feet will be among the first to feel the benefits.
One in three people over the age of 65 has foot pain, stiffness, or aching feet. Common challenges for seniors include hammer toes, corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, bunions, and plantar fasciitis. Keeping an eye on your feet can help you identify what’s happening with the rest of your body. For example, foot problems are common for people living with diabetes and arthritis. These diseases can cause nerve damage or poor blood circulation which make it difficult for foot injuries to heal properly. It’s a natural part of life for our bodies to change as we age; but, there are many ways to enjoy the senior years with little to no pain.
Here are some tips for seniors from HealthCasa’s Chief Chiropodist, Marlie Cappel:
Daily Foot Inspections
Look at your feet everyday and from every angle: top, bottom and between your toes. Use a plastic mirror if you can't see the bottom of your feet. Contact a registered chiropodist or podiatrist if you notice any changes, such as the colour or texture of your feet.
Moisturize Regularly
Keeping your feet moisturized will prevent the skin from flaking or cracking which could lead to open foot sores. After thoroughly washing and drying your feet, apply the lotion on the top and bottom of your feet. To prevent fungal infection, do not moisturize in between your toes.
Wear the Right Shoes
Your feet are only as good as the shoes you put them in. Make sure to have proper fitting shoes that do not cause discomfort. Your shoes should also have good restraining devices, such as laces or velcro to adequately support your feet as you move. If balance and stability becomes an issue, a long handle shoehorn can be very helpful.
Stay Dry
Too much moisture can result in the breakdown of the skin. Drying your feet, especially between the toes, can reduce the risk of fungal infections.
Taking care of your feet as you age is essential to a healthy lifestyle.
MOVING FORWARD
Caring for your feet throughout your lifetime is a major contribution to your overall well being. In addition to your daily personal foot care, there are experienced and certified practitioners that can support you along your journey. Chiropodists and Podiatrists can treat a variety of foot conditions and prescribe custom orthotics. HealthCasa partners exclusively with certified practitioners across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area. Regardless of your age, our team of experts can address the problem areas and put a plan in place to get you moving pain free. And, it can all be done from the comfort and safety of your home. Book an appointment with one of our Registered Chiropodists or Podiatrists to get a better understanding of your specific needs, your foot type and receive individualized footwear recommendations.
MORE MOBILE HEALTHCARE SERVICES
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For your convenience, mobile healthcare services are available 7 days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the GTHA with Covid-19 Precautions in place.
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