\u200bOver a lifetime, feet carry us thousands of miles. It\u2019s no wonder that many older adults experience foot pain. In addition to the wear and tear of a lifetime, there are many foot problems that can crop up. Being familiar with the changes in your older family member\u2019s feet and the kinds of problems that can occur can help you to watch for issues that require medical attention.<\/p>\n
How the Foot Changes<\/strong><\/p>\n One of the biggest changes feet undergo with age is the loss of fat that provides padding. In younger people, there are stores of fat in the ball of the feet and in the heel. They act like shock absorbers, so feet don\u2019t get sore as easily due to walking and standing. The loss of the fat pad can make fractures and bone bruises more likely. It can also throw off your aging relative\u2019s balance.<\/p>\n Another change is in the circulation of blood to the feet. There are lots of things that can affect circulation, such as diabetes and blood clots. The reduced blood flow can cause foot pain because the soft tissues in the feet aren\u2019t getting enough blood.<\/p>\n Common Foot Problems in Seniors<\/strong><\/p>\n There are many foot problems that can be quite painful for seniors. In addition, they can impact mobility. When your aging relative\u2019s feet hurt, they may be more inclined to move less, which could lead to muscle loss and a greater risk of falling. Some of the conditions that can cause foot pain in older adults are:<\/p>\n