If your dad is complaining about foot pain or discomfort, he’s not alone. Approximately 25% of older adults report experiencing foot pain for one reason or another. Sometimes, it’s temporary, but others experience chronic foot pain that impacts mobility and balance.
Left ignored, foot pain and discomfort increase the risk of a fall. Your dad needs to take care of his feet to lessen the chances of problems. Here are six things he can do to keep his feet in good shape and how personal care at home can help:
See a Podiatrist
Make an appointment for your dad to see a podiatrist. He should have his feet checked for issues regularly. It’s the best way to determine if he is having issues and to get his nails trimmed properly.
Keep Them Moisturized
In the winter, dry air can impact skin health. Your dad should apply a cream to his heels to prevent them from drying out and cracking.
Trim His Toenails Correctly
Toenails shouldn’t be so long that they cut into neighboring toes. This increases the risk of infection, plus it makes his toes hurt. Make sure his nails are trimmed so that they’re no farther than the tip of his toes.
Cut the nails straight across and file any sharp, rough edges. As nails on older adults can be dry and brittle, make sure you’re checking your dad’s feet regularly for chipped or jagged nails. If they’re yellowing, talk to his doctor. He could have toenail fungus, which is easily treated.
Wear Shoes That Fit
Your dad needs to wear shoes that fit his feet correctly. If they’re too large, they could rub his heel and cause blisters. If they’re too tight, they’ll pinch his feet, which can also create blisters and sores that could become infected.
Invest in Supportive Pads
Your dad’s feet may need extra support. Inserts that fit in the shoes can help with arch support and give extra padding to prevent aching feet while he walks. If he sees a podiatrist, he may be able to get special inserts that also stop him from putting more weight on the inside or outside edge of his foot.
Stay Active
If your dad gets used to sitting down a lot and not getting much exercise, it can cause him to gain weight. Excess weight puts more pressure on his feet. Make sure your dad stays active and tries to maintain a healthy weight.
It’s time to discuss the benefits of a personal care at home aide could bring to your dad’s foot care routine. Talk to an expert in personal care at home to find out more about the availability of services and how much it costs so that you can book the services your dad needs for his foot care routine.
Sources:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378512216301438
The staff at Home Care Matters is available to talk with you and your family about all of your needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable personal care at home in Braselton, GA, and the surrounding areas.
Call (770) 965-4004 for more information.
We provide elder care in Braselton, Buford, Dacula, Duluth, Flowery Branch, Gainesville, Johns Creek, Lawrenceville, Oakwood, Sugar Hill, Suwanee, Barrow County, Forsyth County, Gwinnett County, Hall County, Jackson County, North Fulton County.
Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”
Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”
You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).
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