Covid, Christmas and the Elderly
December 15, 2020
Why Foot Care Is Critical for Seniors
In a study released by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), they found that the average person will walk about 75,000 miles by the time they reach 50. That same study found that an active person will also take about 10,000 steps a day, resulting in a cumulative force that adds hundreds of tons of pressure to the legs, ankles and feet every day.
If our feet are not properly cared for the ligaments, blood vessels, muscles, bones, joints and nerves in each foot can lead to a whole host of problems that can contribute to, and even increase, a senior’s risk of falling. Foot pain is quite common, and it is estimated that about 75% of Americans suffer from some type of foot pain that ranges from a short term painful annoyance to a complete loss of the ability to walk and permanent disability. Many residents in assisted living facilities suffer from intense foot pain that causes a huge decrease in their mobility.
We spend a lifetime using our feet to support and carry our weight, and it really is no surprise that by the time we reach our later years we begin to develop more intense foot problems.
Some of the most common issues seniors may experience with their feet are:
- Bunions
Pressure on the big toe over time pushes the big toe inwards towards the second toe. Bunions (hallux valgus) develop as bony bumps on the outside of the big toe joint and are quite painful. They are exacerbated over time by high heels or shoes that are too tight, leading to a painful change in bone structure. - Corns, calluses and dry skin
Over time, thick patches of dead skin in the form of corns and calluses will form on the feet to protect more sensitive areas from constant rubbing caused by ill fitting shoes, or other regular causes of irritation.
These can often become dry and cracked leading to infection. - Arthritis
The human foot has a total of 33 joints and osteoarthritis can be a major cause of pain and limited mobility for older adults. - Diabetes-related foot problems
Diabetics have a much higher rate of vascular and foot related issues than most people, and if feet are left uncared for properly, these issues can lead to neuropathy, and in extreme cases, amputation. Diabetics must carefully monitor foot health.
Older adults who lead a sedentary lifestyle are much more prone to experience foot problems. They aren’t active in the workforce or in other daily activities, and are more likely to have chronic issues like diabetes and vascular disease.
They’re not maintaining their overall health and may not even be able to reach their feet. Small issues that could have been addressed early on can develop into much bigger issues.
Journey’s Assisted Living provides On-Site podiatry services through Town Center Podiatry. Residents in our senior living facility are seen and treated on site without having to leave our community. Town Center Podiatry is available to accept new clients as a resident’s podiatry service provider, if the resident or their responsible person so chooses. Town Center Podiatry accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and other Insurance plans.
