Seniors’ Foot Care: Supporting Mobility, Comfort & Independence
As we age, caring for our feet becomes increasingly important. For seniors, maintaining foot health is vital for staying mobile, independent, and active. Age-related changes—such as reduced circulation, thinning skin, and joint stiffness—can lead to a greater risk of foot problems. That’s why regular foot care and check-ups are essential in preventing discomfort and more serious complications.
Common Foot Concerns in Seniors
Older adults are more susceptible to foot issues, including:
- Thick, brittle, or ingrown toenails
- Dry skin, corns, or calluses
- Arthritic changes and foot deformities
- Fungal infections and cracked heels
- Reduced circulation or peripheral neuropathy
- Foot pain or balance difficulties
These problems can affect mobility and increase the risk of falls, especially if left untreated.
Why Foot Care is Essential for Seniors
Healthy feet are the foundation of an active lifestyle. Seniors who experience pain, skin changes, or difficulty with nail care may avoid walking, miss social outings, or struggle with everyday tasks. For those managing conditions like diabetes or arthritis, proper foot care is even more important to avoid complications such as infections or ulcers.
Seniors’ Foot Care Tips
🦶 Inspect Feet Daily
Check for signs of redness, swelling, cuts, or changes in skin or nails. Early detection helps prevent bigger problems.
🧼 Keep Feet Clean and Moisturised
Wash daily and dry thoroughly—especially between the toes. Use a moisturiser to prevent cracking, but avoid applying it between the toes.
✂️ Trim Nails Safely
Cut toenails straight across and avoid cutting too short. If vision, mobility, or grip strength makes this difficult, a podiatrist can assist.
👟 Choose the Right Footwear
Wear comfortable, supportive shoes with a wide toe box. Avoid footwear that is too tight, flat, or worn out.
🪑 Stay Active
Gentle daily activity improves circulation, flexibility, and strength—all important for maintaining foot function and balance.
How Podiatrists Support Seniors’ Foot Health
At Podiatry Hub, we offer professional and compassionate care tailored to seniors, including:
- Routine nail and skin care
- Management of arthritis and structural issues
- Diabetic foot checks and vascular screening
- Help with footwear, balance, and gait
- Preventative care to reduce risk of falls and complications
Regular podiatry visits help keep feet comfortable, reduce the risk of injury, and support overall wellbeing.
Take the First Step Toward Better Foot Health
Caring for your feet as you age is one of the best things you can do to maintain independence and quality of life. Whether you’re managing ongoing issues or just need regular support, our team is here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions – Seniors’ Foot Care
- Do aged pensioners get free podiatry?
Aged pensioners may be eligible for subsidised podiatry services through Medicare if they have a chronic health condition and are referred by their GP under a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan. This typically covers up to five allied health visits per calendar year, which can include podiatry. Check with your GP or podiatrist for more details. - How do you take care of elderly feet?
Caring for elderly feet includes daily cleaning and moisturising, regular nail trimming, wearing well-fitting shoes, checking for cuts or changes in skin, and seeking professional care for issues like corns, calluses, or infections. Regular podiatry visits are important for preventing complications and maintaining mobility. - How often does Medicare pay for routine foot care?
Through a CDM Plan, Medicare may subsidise routine foot care up to five times per year across all referred allied health services (not just podiatry). Your GP must assess your eligibility and create the care plan. Outside of this, additional podiatry care may be privately billed. - What are the most common foot problems in older adults?
Older adults commonly experience:
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- Thickened or ingrown toenails
- Dry or cracked skin
- Bunions or toe deformities
- Arthritis-related foot pain
- Fungal infections
- Poor circulation or sensation (neuropathy)
These issues can lead to pain, instability, and increased risk of falls if not managed properly.
- Can podiatrists help with balance and fall prevention?
Yes. Podiatrists assess foot structure, muscle strength, footwear, and gait. They can provide orthotics, footwear advice, and foot strengthening exercises to improve stability and reduce the risk of falls in seniors. - What kind of shoes should older adults wear?
Seniors should wear shoes with:
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- A wide toe box
- Good arch support
- Non-slip soles
- Low heels
- Soft lining to reduce rubbing
Proper footwear helps prevent pressure points, pain, and balance issues.
Josh Condon (Podiatrist)