Why Feet Matter More Than You Think
Our feet are the foundation of nearly every movement we make. They support our body weight, help us balance, and enable us to stay mobile and independent. Yet foot issues are one of the most overlooked—and preventable—causes of falls, pain, and reduced quality of life in older adults.
Key Roles of the Feet
- Support: Bear the full weight of your body with every step
- Balance: Play a critical role in posture and fall prevention
- Mobility: Enable walking, climbing stairs, getting up from a chair, and more
- Health Signals: Often the first place signs of health issues like diabetes, arthritis, and circulation problems appear
Common Foot Issues in Older Adults
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Corns & Calluses | Thickened skin caused by pressure or friction |
| Bunions | Bony bump at the base of the big toe, often from years of poor shoe fit |
| Hammer Toes | Bent toes that may cause pain or difficulty walking |
| Dry, Cracked Skin | Can lead to infection if not treated |
| Thick or Fungal Nails | May make self-care harder; can be painful or embarrassing |
| Neuropathy | Numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation, often due to diabetes |
| Arthritis | Joint pain and stiffness in the foot or ankle |
| Circulation Issues | Cold feet, swelling, or slow wound healing may indicate vascular concerns |
Red Flags to Watch For
- Persistent foot or toe pain
- Redness, swelling, or open sores
- Toenails that are discolored, thick, or hard to trim
- New numbness or tingling
- Difficulty walking, balancing, or wearing shoes comfortably
Practical Tips for Healthy Aging Feet
- Inspect Daily: Look for redness, sores, cracks, or swelling
- Wash & Dry Thoroughly: Especially between the toes
- Moisturize (But Not Between Toes): Prevents cracking
- Trim Nails Carefully: Straight across to prevent ingrown nails
- Choose Proper Footwear: Supportive, non-slip, roomy shoes
- Stay Active: Movement promotes circulation and muscle strength
- See a Podiatrist: At least yearly, or sooner if problems arise
When to Get Professional Help
- Pain that affects your mobility or balance
- Changes in skin color or temperature
- Sores that don’t heal within a few days
- Signs of infection (redness, pus, warmth)
- Difficulty trimming nails or checking your own feet
Connection to Whole-Person Health
Caring for your feet isn’t just about comfort—it affects your ability to exercise, connect with others, do daily tasks, and avoid hospitalization. Many serious complications can be prevented with regular care and attention.
“Your feet are the most valuable real estate you own. Take care of them, and they’ll take you wherever you want to go.”
OldSmarts® Tip
Use a mirror or ask a caregiver to help you inspect the bottoms of your feet daily—especially if you have diabetes or circulation issues.