Geriatric Care

FAMILY MEDICINE AND PODIATRY SERVICES IN PHOENIX, AZ

Geriatric Care services offered in Phoenix and Sun City, AZ

As people age, paying good attention to overall health is essential. Feet are considered the foundation of the body, and if their hygiene becomes at risk, immobility and pain are possible. To avoid this, it’s recommended that older adults and senior citizens take early action to maintain the health of their feet. Devin Bland, DPM, FACFAS, DABPM, and Carla Aldaz, MSN, FNP, ANCC-BC of Prestige Medical Care offer evidence-based care for the whole family, from pediatrics to geriatrics. Call the family medicine and podiatry office in Phoenix, Arizona, to schedule a visit. Or request an appointment online.

Geriatric Care Q&A

What geriatrics foot problems should people look out for?

Specific foot problems are more common among older adults and geriatrics, such as:

Bunions
Hammertoes
Corns
Calluses
Dry skin
Brittle nails
Cracked heels
Toenail fungus
Ingrown toenails
Heel pain
Diabetic foot wounds
Nerve damage
Arthritis
Poor circulation

As with any other part of the body, as people age, their feet undergo wear and tear. The ligaments, muscles, joints, tendons, and fat pads in the feet can deteriorate, leading to an increased risk of developing foot problems.

Older people and geriatrics are also more likely to have systemic illnesses, such as peripheral neuropathy, poor circulation, diabetes, and arthritis, which can all affect the feet. Additionally, the risk of falling increases with age. A fall might injure feet and impair mobility.

How do you care for geriatrics feet?

Establishing a daily foot care routine is the best way to care for geriatrics feet. This typically includes daily practices to maintain good foot hygiene, such as washing, thoroughly drying, moisturizing the feet, and trimming the toenails straight across on a regular basis.

To avoid the most common geriatrics foot problems from arising, it’s recommended to use a footstool when seated to keep the feet elevated, dry the feet thoroughly after washing, ensure socks and shoes fit well and leave room for toes, and keep feet moisturized to avoid cracking of the skin.

Regularly stretching the feet can help maintain their strength and flexibility. It is also important to wear comfortable, properly-fitted shoes.

How do you prevent foot problems in geriatrics?

In addition to following a daily foot care routine, older adults should carefully monitor the appearance and health of their feet. This can be done through daily visual inspection of the feet.

Look out for cuts, scrapes, sores, wounds, blisters, or other foot changes, such as discoloration. Also, take note of any new or strange sensations, including aches, pains, tingling, or numbness.

If you notice any problems, seek the care of a Prestige Medical Care podiatrist as soon as possible. Prompt and proper treatment is the key to preventing complications and maintaining good foot health as you age.

Call the office to learn more about geriatrics and schedule a visit. You can also request an appointment online, which is fast and easy.