There are several age-related factors that make older adults more susceptible to foot damage.
The fatty cushioning under the heels and balls of the feet thins, and the skin on the feet loses its elasticity and strength. Furthermore, toenails become more brittle, thick and hard. This makes them more difficult to trim, and therefore, increases the risk of ingrown toenails, fungal breakouts and infection (APodA 2018a).
Additionally, many older people may struggle with foot care as they grapple with other impairments such as poor vision and restricted mobility (APodA 2018b).
On the more extreme end of foot complications are bone deformities, such as bunions and arthritis. These deformities can implicate foot care and lead to an increase in falls (APodA 2018a).
Tinea: Also called ‘athlete’s foot’, tinea is an infection characterised by a red, itchy rash
Bunions: Bunions can push the toes and feet out of shape
Warts: Can appear on the sole, heel or toes
Corns and calluses: A result of pressure from footwear or walking
Ingrown toenail: A toenail curls down and grows into the skin
Diabetes-related foot disease (DFD): DFD most commonly occurs in people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. It results in an insensitive and often deformed foot.
(Healthdirect 2021a, b; Better Health Channel 2014)
Foot Care for Older Adults
Wash and dry feet every day with warm water and mild soap (including between the toes)
Check for problems such as cuts, bruises, blisters, swelling and pus
Moisturise the skin
Avoid over-the-counter corn cures
Ensure that shoes fit correctly
Encourage sensible, supportive footwear
Change socks daily
Recommend clients use a hand mirror to check underneath their feet
Recommend an annual foot check by a podiatrist.
(APodA 2018b; Healthdirect 2021a; Limbs 4 Life 2018; Diabetes Australia 2022; Eureka Medical & Dental Centre 2020)
Foot Injuries
Injuries such as cuts, blisters, sores, red areas or cracks should be tended to immediately.
If caring for a client with a foot injury:
Wash and dry the area with care
Apply antiseptic
Dress with a sterile dressing
Monitor the healing of the wound over a 24-hour period and seek timely medical attention if it does not improve.
(Diabetes Australia 2022)
Nail Care for Older Adults
Nails should be cut straight across and filed smooth by a podiatrist
Thick and ingrown nails should be attended to by a podiatrist
Rub moisturiser into the skin around the nails
Changes in nails, such as in colour, swelling, texture or signs of bleeding should be monitored.
(Mayo Clinic 2022)
Preventing Nail Problems
Ensure that the resident is wearing shoes that fit them
Nails should be trimmed properly by a podiatrist. This involves soaking the feet beforehand, cutting straight across the nail and not tapering corners or trimming too short
Keep the feet clean and dry.
(Healthdirect 2021b)
Illnesses that May Affect Foot Health
Arthritis can manifest in many forms and has the potential to damage the joints of the feet
Diabetes can damage the nerves in the feet, reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of infection
Poor blood flow can lead to skin changes, pain, coldness and splintered toenails.
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