5 Simple Foot Care Tips Every Senior (and Caregiver) Should Know

Keeping feet healthy helps seniors stay mobile, reduce pain, and lower fall risk. These five practical tips are easy to use at home and are based on current foot-care practice.

1. Check feet daily (or ask a caregiver to check)

Look for changes in colour, swelling, wounds, or cuts. Early detection prevents small problems from becoming infections or ulcers — especially for people with diabetes or poor circulation.

2. Keep skin hydrated — but avoid soaking

Use a moisturizer (at least 10% urea) on dry areas (not between toes) to reduce cracking. Soaking feet for long periods can increase infection risk and skin breakdown; instead, wash, dry carefully (especially between toes), then moisturize. These practical low-risk steps are supported by foot-care practices.

3. Trim nails straight across — or get a trained foot-care nurse to do it

Cutting nails straight across helps prevent ingrown toenails. Thick or fungal nails, or nails that are hard to reach, should be handled by a trained foot-care nurse or podiatrist to avoid injury. Evidence shows nurse-led foot-care programs improve foot health and reduce complications in older adults.

4. Choose supportive, well-fitting shoes

Shoes with a roomy toe box and secure fastenings reduce pressure points and help prevent corns, calluses and toe deformities. Proper footwear also reduces fall risk — an important consideration for seniors.

5. When in doubt, get professional care early

If you notice redness, drainage, severe pain, or suspect an infection — stop self-treatment and contact a foot-care nurse or your doctor. Early professional assessment reduces the chance of more serious concerns.

Quick checklist

• Check feet daily

• Wash, dry, moisturize (avoid between toes)

• Trim nails straight across or book a nurse visit

• Wear roomy, supportive shoes

• Seek care for redness, drainage, or severe pain

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