Geriatric Foot Care
As we age, our feet change too. Reduced circulation, thinning skin, and joint changes can all affect comfort and mobility, which is why routine foot care becomes more important with every passing year.
Request an AppointmentAging affects the feet in several ways. Skin becomes thinner and more prone to injury, circulation can decrease, and the natural fat padding on the bottom of the feet tends to thin out, making every step more noticeable. Conditions like arthritis and neuropathy also become more common, adding stiffness, pain, or numbness to the mix.
Common Foot Concerns in Older Adults
Some of the most frequent issues we see in older patients include:
- Thickened or discolored toenails, including toenail fungus
- Ingrown toenails that become harder to manage independently
- Dry, cracked skin and calluses
- Reduced sensation from neuropathy
- Balance and gait changes that increase fall risk
- Joint pain from arthritis
Our Geriatric Foot Care Services
We offer routine and preventive care tailored to older adults, including:
- Regular foot exams to catch problems early
- Professional nail trimming and callus care
- Diabetic foot care for patients managing diabetes
- Custom orthotics and supportive footwear recommendations
- Fall risk assessments to help maintain stability and independence
- Treatment for common conditions like athlete’s foot, warts, and hammertoes
Why Routine Visits Matter
Many older adults live with reduced sensation in their feet, which means injuries can go unnoticed longer than they should. Routine visits allow us to catch small problems, like a callus or minor cut, before they become bigger ones. This is especially important for patients managing diabetes, where even small foot injuries can become serious.
Supporting Independence
Healthy, pain-free feet play a major role in staying active and independent. Whether it’s walking to stay social, managing daily errands, or simply moving comfortably around the house, we’re here to help keep you on your feet. If you’re new to our practice, visit our new patients page or meet the doctor before your first visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should I start seeing a podiatrist regularly?
There’s no single age requirement, but many patients benefit from more regular podiatric visits starting in their 60s, especially if they have diabetes, arthritis, or circulation concerns.
Why do older adults get more foot problems?
Aging can reduce circulation and skin elasticity, thin the natural padding on the feet, and increase the likelihood of conditions like arthritis and neuropathy.
Can you help with thick or discolored toenails?
Yes, we treat conditions like toenail fungus and can safely trim and manage thickened nails.
Do you offer fall prevention services for seniors?
Yes, our fall risk assessments are designed specifically to help older adults reduce their risk of falling.
How can I care for my feet at home as I age?
Daily foot checks, moisturizing dry skin, wearing supportive shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot can all help prevent common age-related foot problems.
Do you treat diabetic seniors?
Yes, we provide dedicated diabetic foot care alongside our general geriatric services.
Will Medicare cover geriatric foot care visits?
Many aspects of geriatric foot care are covered under Medicare, particularly for patients with diabetes or certain medical conditions. Our office can help verify your specific coverage.
