By the time you’ve reached your senior years, your feet have likely taken quite the journey. The average 80-year-old will have taken well over 200 million steps, and most assuredly not all of them were easy. Aging feet have born a lot of wear and weight through life, so it’s important to take special care of them.
Time can have a detrimental effect on feet. They tend to lose their cushioning, and nails can grow brittle. It is also quite possible that the stiffness of arthritis has set in, or that poor circulation has made it so sores heal more slowly. This is why it’s so important to keep a regular eye on the conditions of aging feet. Look for injuries, blisters, ingrown nails, or any other abnormalities. The use of a mirror or loved one may be needed to be able to see everything, but it’s worth it.
Seniors should often try to aid circulation in their feet. Engaging in more physical activity such as walking or swimming will naturally help, and so can putting one’s feet up while sitting down or receiving a foot massage. Any smoking should stop immediately, as that only contributes to the buildup of plaque in blood vessels.
Properly fitting shoes is another must. Some seniors tend to procrastinate on buying new shoes, but the sizes of their feet can still change over time. Make sure a foot measurement has been performed recently, and choose shoes that are comfortable, accommodating, and prevent slipping.
With proper care, aging feet can continue strong into life’s journey. For any problems or needs that may arise, Dr. Kevin Powers in Bloomington can provide thorough, considerate treatment and advice. Schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one by calling (812) 333-4422.
