As an elderly patient, it is important that you pay special attention to your feet with regard to foot hygiene, the cutting of nails, the type of socks and stockings/hosiery worn type of shoes and other matters concerning the feet.
NAILS
Your nails should be attended to on a regular basis using a pair of ordinary nail clippers. The nails of the elderly are usually thick in many cases and therefore, it would be best to do nail cutting after bath time as the nail would be much easier to cut at this time. Nails hsould be cut making sure that you follow the length and shape of the toe so as to minimize damage to the nail during the re-growth stage. NEVER probe the nail groove or any part of the nail. Should you be experiencing any difficulty with your nails or, should you suffer any pain or discomfort, consult your Foot Health Practitioner.
CORNS & CALLUSES
It is important for the elderly patient to know that any corn or callus should be treated by a qualified Practitioner and that removal of these disorders should not be attempted by the patient. Equally, NEVER use any corn cures as the medicaments in the preparations could have serious effects on the patient.
HYGIENE
Your feet should be washed daily in tepid wate using a mild toilet soap. After washing, the feet should be carefully rinsed in plain water and properly dried paying special attention to between the toes. If you have sweaty feet normally then cleaning the feet with surgical spirit after drying and subsequently dusting the feet will minimize the sweating; equally, if you suffer from dry feet then use of a cream will help maintain the feet.
It is important that you change to a clean pair of socks, stockings/hosiery every day.
HEAT AND COLD
Due to age, the elderly, in many cases, have problems with circulation and because of this, the elderly patient should avoid very hot baths and electric blankets should be turned off at bedtime. You should not sit too close to fireplaces or heaters. NEVER use hot poultices and, ONLY loose fitting woolen socks should be worn.
FOOTWEAR
Shoes must be chosen carefully. It is best to have lace-up and soft upper shoes so that your feet will be held firmly during walking. To be sure that the shoes are suited for your feet, walk on a solid area of the store NOT ON THE CARPETED FLOOR. It is best to have your feet measured when buying shoes. Feet must be measured when standing up as this is when the true size is known. It is important to wear socks, stockings/hosiery that will not restrict movement of the foot. Garters also will impede circulation. Avoid going bare foot.
FIRST AID
If any minor injury should happen to you (eg cuts or bruises), clean the area with surgical spirit and apply a mild antiseptic (eg savlon). DO NOT apply adhesive strapping directly to the area or wrap the strapping around toes as this will restrict circulation. Blisters on the feet should be left alone and should not be punctured (pricked) to release the fluid but should be left to dry up on their own. Should they open or their own accord and discharge their contents, dress with an antiseptic dressing. It will be necessary to vist your Practitioner of GP if the injury is not responding to the treatment.
UNHEALTHY FEET
If you notice any discharge coming from a nreak in the skin or from a nail or corn, it is important that you visit your practitioner. If there is pain, itching, swelling or colour change in the feet or legs visit the Foot Health Practitioner.