By Amber Merten
Our feet carry us through a lifetime, so it’s no surprise that they can begin to need extra care as we get older. Changes in the skin, joints, circulation, and even the shape of the feet can make certain foot problems more common with age.
While some foot concerns may seem minor, pain or discomfort can make it harder for older adults to stay active and more likely to trip or fall. Recognizing problems early can help seniors remain safely on their feet.
Common Foot Problems in Older Adults
One third of adults older than 65 fall each year and more than half of 80 year olds fall annually, according to research published in the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association. When standing or walking hurts it’s time to investigate what is going on with your feet and how to treat them.
1. Dry or cracked skin: Skin tends to become thinner and drier with age, and the heels can be especially prone to cracking. Regular moisturizing may help keep the skin soft and comfortable.
2. Corns and calluses: Areas of thickened skin can develop from repeated pressure or friction. Shoes that don’t fit properly may contribute to the problem.
3. Bunions: A bunion is a bony bump that develops near the base of the big toe. Bunions can become painful and make it difficult to find comfortable shoes.
4. Thick or ingrown toenails: Toenails may become thicker and more difficult to trim with age. Ingrown nails can also cause tenderness, redness, and sometimes infection.
5. Arthritis: Arthritis in the feet and ankles can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling, potentially making everyday activities such as walking or climbing stairs more difficult.
6. Swelling: Feet and ankles may swell for many reasons, including prolonged sitting or standing. Persistent or sudden swelling should be discussed with a healthcare professional because it can sometimes be related to an underlying health condition.
7. Numbness or changes in sensation: Reduced sensation in the feet can make it harder to notice blisters, cuts, or other injuries. This can be particularly important for people with diabetes or circulation problems.
How Foot Problems Can Affect Independence
Foot pain doesn’t necessarily stay confined to the feet. When walking becomes uncomfortable, an older adult may begin moving less or changing the way they walk. Over time, decreased activity can affect strength and balance.
Regularly checking the feet, wearing supportive and properly fitting shoes, and addressing pain can help seniors stay active. A few extra habits you can do each day include:
• Rolling your foot over a frozen water bottle for 15 min to reduce inflammation
• Stretching the calf muscles and plantar fascia
• Replace worn out shoes every 6 months and avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces
When to Talk to a Healthcare Provider
Some changes deserve prompt attention. Contact a healthcare professional about concerns such as:
• A sore or wound that isn’t healing
• New or significant swelling
• Numbness or loss of sensation
• Noticeable changes in skin color or temperature
• Sudden or severe foot pain
Older adults with diabetes or circulation problems may need professional foot care and should follow their healthcare provider’s recommendations.
A Little Support Can Help Seniors Stay on Their Feet
Simple tasks can become more challenging when balance or mobility is limited. Family members and care professionals can help by noticing changes in mobility, encouraging supportive footwear, assisting with everyday activities, and providing transportation to medical or foot-care appointments. At Synergy HomeCare, we provide the support and companionship that can help aging loved ones put their best foot forward—staying healthy, safe, and independent at home.
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