Developing a consistent daily routine for foot care at home is one of the most important steps you can take to maintain healthy feet. These simple habits can prevent many problems and help you identify issues early.
Daily Care Tips
Wash your feet thoroughly every day with warm (not hot) water and mild soap [4]. Pay special attention to cleaning between your toes, where moisture and bacteria can accumulate. After washing, dry your feet completely, especially between the toes, as moisture in these areas can lead to fungal infections.
Apply moisturizer to keep skin soft and prevent cracking, but avoid putting lotion between your toes where excess moisture can cause problems [4]. Use a quality foot cream or lotion specifically designed for dry skin, and pay particular attention to your heels where cracking is most common.
Inspect your feet daily for any changes, including cuts, bruises, swelling, redness, or changes in skin color [4]. Use a mirror if necessary to see the bottoms of your feet, or ask a family member to help if you have difficulty seeing all areas clearly.
Look for any signs of infection, such as increased warmth, persistent redness, or discharge from cuts or sores. Early detection of problems allows for prompt treatment and prevents complications.
Healthy Habits
Elevate your feet regularly to reduce swelling and improve circulation. When sitting, prop your feet up on a footstool or ottoman so they're level with or slightly above your heart. Even 15-20 minutes of elevation several times throughout the day can help reduce fluid buildup.
Perform gentle stretching and exercises to improve circulation and maintain flexibility [4]. Simple ankle rotations, calf raises, and toe wiggling can help keep blood flowing and joints moving, offering seniors a good way to promote foot health. These exercises are particularly important if you spend long periods sitting or lying down.
Wear clean, moisture-wicking socks that keep your feet dry and comfortable [4]. Change socks daily, or more often if your feet tend to sweat. Choose socks made from materials that pull moisture away from your skin, and avoid socks with tight elastic bands that can restrict circulation.
Keep your toenails trimmed straight across to prevent ingrown nails [4]. If you have difficulty reaching your feet or have vision problems, consider having a podiatrist or other healthcare provider trim your nails safely.
When to Call a Doctor
Consulting a specialized doctor can offer the best solutions for persistent issues. Certain signs and symptoms require prompt medical attention [4]. Any sign of infection, including persistent redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge from a wound, should be evaluated by a healthcare provider immediately.
Persistent or worsening pain that interferes with walking or daily activities needs professional evaluation. Don't assume that foot pain is a normal part of aging that you must tolerate.
Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations that don't improve may indicate nerve problems that require medical treatment. These symptoms are particularly concerning for people with diabetes or other conditions that affect circulation.
Sudden or severe swelling, especially if it affects only one foot or is accompanied by pain, could indicate a serious condition requiring immediate care.
Any wound that doesn't heal within a few days or shows signs of getting worse should be examined by a healthcare provider, especially if you have diabetes or circulation problems.
Choosing the Right Footwear for Aging Feet
Proper orthopedic shoes become increasingly important as your feet change with age. The right shoes can prevent many problems and provide the support and comfort your aging feet need.
Must-Have Features
Wide toe boxes give your toes adequate space and prevent pressure on bunions, hammertoes, or swollen areas. Shoes that squeeze your toes together can worsen existing deformities and create new problems over time.
Adjustable closures such as Velcro straps, elastic laces, or multiple strap systems allow you to modify the fit as your feet change throughout the day [4]. This adjustability is particularly important if you experience swelling or have arthritis that makes traditional laces difficult to manage.
Slip-resistant soles provide stability and reduce fall risk. Look for shoes with textured rubber soles that provide good traction on various surfaces, both wet and dry.
Lightweight cushioning helps absorb impact and reduces stress on your joints. Quality cushioning in the heel and forefoot areas compensates for the natural loss of fat padding that occurs with age.
Orthotic support helps maintain proper foot alignment and reduces strain on muscles and joints. Built-in arch support is particularly important if your feet have flattened over time or if you have conditions like plantar fasciitis.
The Fit Factor
Measure your feet regularly because aging feet often change in size and shape [2]. What fit perfectly a year ago may no longer be appropriate. Have your feet measured at least once a year, or whenever you notice your shoes feeling different.
Shop for shoes in the afternoon or evening when your feet are slightly swollen to their largest size of the day. This ensures that shoes will be comfortable even when natural swelling occurs.
Ensure shoes are snug but not tight. You should have about a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. The shoe should hold your foot securely without creating pressure points or allowing excessive movement.
Look for adjustable features that accommodate daily changes in foot size due to swelling or stiffness. Shoes that can be loosened or tightened as needed provide better comfort throughout the day.
Orthofeet Footwear Options for Elderly Foot Care
At Orthofeet, we understand that how to care for aging feet includes choosing footwear designed specifically for the challenges that come with age. Our orthopedic shoes address the common problems that affect older adults while providing the comfort and support needed for daily activities.
Our shoes feature premium orthotic insoles that provide targeted arch support and help maintain proper foot alignment. This support is crucial for people whose feet have changed shape over time or who have conditions like arthritis that affect foot function.
Extra depth and wide-width options accommodate foot deformities, swelling, or the need for custom orthotics. Our designs ensure that people with bunions, hammertoes, or other age-related foot changes can find comfortable, supportive footwear.
Cushioned, shock-absorbing soles help compensate for the natural loss of fat padding in aging feet. This cushioning reduces impact on joints and makes walking more comfortable on hard surfaces.
Breathable, stretchable uppers adjust to your foot's shape and accommodate minor swelling that may occur throughout the day. These materials help prevent pressure points while providing a secure, comfortable fit.
Easy-to-use closures make our shoes accessible for people with arthritis or limited mobility. Many of our styles feature Velcro straps, elastic laces, or other adjustable systems that don't require fine motor skills to operate.
Our specialized collections include shoes for foot pain, shoes for swollen feet and edema, and orthopedic shoes for women and men’s orthopedic shoes.
Taking proper care of your aging feet is an investment in your independence and quality of life. By understanding the changes that occur with age, developing consistent daily care habits, and choosing appropriate footwear, you can keep your feet healthy and comfortable for years to come.
Remember that foot care for elderly individuals isn't just about treating problems after they develop. It's about preventing issues before they start and maintaining the mobility that allows you to continue enjoying the activities you love.
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Sources:
[1] PubMed. "Foot care for the aging." 1987.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3194453/
[2] PMC. "Foot Examination for Older Adults." 2021.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9614715/
[3] PubMed. "Foot disorders in the elderly: A mini-review." 2017.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28826743/
[4] Emory Healthcare. "Foot Care for Seniors: 10 Important Tips."
https://www.emoryhealthcare.org/stories/wellness/foot-care-for-seniors-10-important-tips
