Older People’s Feet!!!!
Posted on 29th November 2017 at 14:22
It’s a fact, they exist and although I am often told by carers (who in my opinion have some questionable tasks to perform in the caring industry) that they cannot bear to look at them. They’re only feet!!!!!
I suppose older people’s feet are just as important as many other areas of their bodies, aging has a huge effect many parts of us but feet, if neglected can become a real health hazard.
Let’s start at the skin… skin becomes drier and thinner as we age, and this is a problem as dry, thin skin tears easily and heals slowly.
The skin between the toes and under the toes can build up rather than shed as an older person may not be able to reach down there to clean and rub off old skin cells, this area can become moist and a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.
Thin skin stretched over toe joints can breakdown under shoe pressure and around the heels the skin can peel and tear simply from resting heels on a firm surface such as a hard foot stool.
Daily care is essential to keep the skin healthy.
Soaking alone is no use as it does not help exfoliate the skin and can contribute to clumping of dead skin between and under the toes. A quick soak in soap and lukewarm water followed by a thorough dry with a rough towel is the best way to clear dead skin. If the toes are crowed together use a cotton bud to clean between the toes and under the toes if they are curled and tight rather than straight. Once dry apply a layer of a non-greasy cream such as CCS or Ureka 10% and soft socks such as cotton or bamboo socks rather than nylon pop socks or tights.
I’ll talk a bit more about the effects of aging on the feet next week.
Share this post: