If your senior parent has diabetes, you probably have already talked to them about how important it is for them to watch their diet and exercise as much as they can. But have you talked to them about foot care? Foot care is essential for seniors who have diabetes because seniors who have diabetes have a high risk of developing problems with their feet. If your senior parent isn’t taking good care of their feet because they have trouble reaching their feet or bending down, personal care at home providers can help.
Poor circulation, not being able to exercise much, and other factors can lead to foot problems like ulcers and sores if your senior parent isn’t careful. Doctors typically recommend daily or regular foot care for seniors who have diabetes.
With personal care at home, your senior parent will have someone visit regularly to help them shower and do other foot care tasks like:
Check Feet Daily
Seniors with diabetes should inspect their feet every day for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. Because diabetes can cause nerve damage, they may not feel injuries right away. Looking at their feet daily helps catch small problems before they turn into serious infections.
If your senior parent can’t easily bend down or reach their feet a care provider who specializes in personal care at home is a great resource for your senior parent. A care giver can inspect their feet each day and make sure that any problems get addressed immediately.
Wash and Dry Feet Properly
Washing feet with warm water and mild soap keeps them clean and reduces the risk of infection. After washing, it’s important to dry them completely, especially between the toes. Moisture can lead to fungal infections like athlete’s foot, which can be harder to treat in people with diabetes. Keeping feet clean and dry helps prevent bacteria and fungus from growing.
Moisturize, but Not Between the Toes
Dry skin can crack and create openings for infections. Applying lotion or moisturizer to the tops and bottoms of the feet helps keep skin soft and prevents dryness. However, lotion should not be applied between the toes because it can trap moisture and lead to fungal infections. Keeping the skin healthy reduces the risk of painful sores and infections.
Trim Toenails Carefully
Toenails should be trimmed straight across and should not be too short. Rounding the edges too much can cause ingrown toenails, which can lead to infections. If a senior has thick or hard-to-cut nails, a podiatrist (foot doctor) can help trim them safely. Keeping toenails properly trimmed prevents painful conditions that can make walking difficult.
Wear Proper Shoes and Socks
Wearing well-fitted, supportive shoes protects feet from cuts, blisters, and pressure sores. Shoes should have a wide toe box and soft insoles to reduce rubbing. Seniors should also wear seamless, moisture-wicking socks to keep their feet dry and prevent irritation. Walking barefoot, even indoors, is risky because they might step on something sharp without noticing. The right footwear helps protect feet from injury and keeps them comfortable.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Personal Care at Home Services in Nolensville TN, please get in touch with the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (615) 307-4509
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Nashville, Brentwood, Nolensville, Gallatin, Hendersonville, Smyrna, Murfreesboro, Mount Juliet, Lebanon, Goodlettsville, Davidson County, and surrounding areas.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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