Can you tell me how to care for the foot of an older person?

Question

Can you tell me how to care for the foot of an older person?

Answer

The care of the older person's foot begins with prevention. This includes the identification of those people with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, foot deformities, past histories of foot ulcers, visual handicap, and perhaps those who are inclined to abuse alcohol.

The foot should be warm but not over heated, and the shoe should be comfortable and not tight. There are products which will reduce foot pressures and provide a cheap, effective method of protecting high risk feet, such as specially woven hosiery. Nail and hard skin care are usually within the province of the chiropodist, who will advise on the treatment required. Ulcers require referral to a specialist clinic and elaboration of the underlying problem causing the ulcers.

Links

• Tip of the Month #3: How To Look After Your Feet