Caring For Your Feet

As you age it becomes more and more important to learn how to properly care for your feet. Why? Because many of the most common diseases among older people, particularly diabetes, can cause a substantial increase in the risk of foot problems.

Good foot care becomes very important when you have such a condition as it will help to decrease your chances of serious problems.

How Should You Care For Your Feet?

1. Your feet should be washed daily with warm (not cold or hot) water and a mild soap. All soap should be washed off and then a soft towel should be used to dry the feet (particularly between the toes.)

2. Toenails should be trimmed regularly but not too short. They should be trimmed straight across. If you have diabetes you should ask your doctor about your toenails, you may want to have your toenails cut by a podiatrist.

3. Clean socks should be worn each day. Be sure the socks are not too tight.

4. If you are having problems keeping your feet warm you should seek out thicker socks. Do not use heating pads or hot water bottles.

5. Inspect your feet daily for any cuts, cracks, sores, corns, calluses, or color changes. If you cannot see the bottom of your feet you should either use a mirror or have someone else look at the bottoms of your feet for you.