People don’t often consider the health of their feet until something goes wrong. Unfortunately, this can cause trouble as people age. For seniors, after years of keeping them upright and balanced, their feet have been through a lot of wear and tear. It is estimated that one in three adults over 65 experience foot pain of some kind. For 24-hour home care professionals, understanding what common issues arise with feet is essential to ensuring the health and well-being of the seniors in their care.
Common Foot Issues for Seniors
There are a variety of issues that seniors face when it comes to their feet. Regular visits to a podiatrist can help monitor these issues and provide tips for preventing additional issues. Some of the most common concerns are listed below.
- Bunions
- Corns
- Callouses
- Arthritis in the foot
- Poor circulation
- Pain in the heel
These are only a few of the reasons podiatrists treat senior feet. Each of these issues can be treated with consistency and care. Providing 24-hour home care for seniors ensures that foot issues are monitored and maintained so they do not worsen.
Understanding Foot Changes Over Time
As people age, their feet grow and expand. Through the years, the ligaments and tendons in the foot can no longer bounce back as they once did. This can result in fallen arches that flatten and lengthen the foot and toes. Fallen arches alone can lead to flat feet, which is a painful condition for those on their feet often.
These changes in the foot lead to some of the conditions listed above. Unfortunately, nothing can be done to stop the foot from changing, but ensuring that seniors have the right size shoes is key. Too often, the same size is purchased without understanding the foot may have changed enough to warrant a new size.
Tips for Dealing With Foot Pain
Do not minimize foot pain. More often than not, the pain will increase over time and may result in decreased mobility. When seniors have 24-hour home care, they are monitored more frequently for issues when they arise. As with other senior care changes, the sooner the problem is addressed, the better.
Some seniors may consider orthotics to help with foot pain. This can be done with either special shoes or inserts. If foot issues are too severe, custom insoles may be needed. These items help support and cushion the feet so that walking is not as difficult.
24-Hour Home Care
Many do not realize that other health conditions, such as diabetes, can affect their feet. In addition, pay attention to sores or injuries to your feet. Make sure they are cleaned thoroughly and kept dry. 24-hour home care professionals can pay attention to changes in the condition of feet. These changes might include seniors complaining of numbness or excessing sweating in the foot.
Dry and cracked feet should be moisturized consistently. Additionally, seniors should wear socks that fit well and are clean. One of the best things to do to ensure the continued health of the feet is to keep moving. An active lifestyle is good for the entire body, including the feet.
24-hour home care is available to work with seniors to ensure continued health and well-being, regardless of the issue. From foot problems to cooking healthy meals, the comfort of having home care goes a long way.
If you or an aging loved one are considering 24-Hour Home Care in Phoenix, AZ please contact the caring staff at Alpha Care Inc. today. Call (866) 230-7983
Alpha Care Inc. is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Glendale, Sun Lakes, Peoria, Tempe, and the surrounding areas.
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