Staying active

It’s never too late to start caring for your feet!

Older feet naturally develop more problems because the skin tends to become thin and lose its elasticity. But painful and uncomfortable feet aren’t a natural part of growing older or something that you need to 'put up with’.

A lot can be done to improve comfort‚ relieve pain and maintain mobility.

Looking after your feet is one of the most important aspects of your personal health care. This leaflet will give you some hints and tips on how to look after your feet‚ and what to do if you do have problems.

Tips for good foot health:

• Try to keep your feet as warm as possible – but don’t cook them in front of the fire! Exercise is a good way of keeping your feet warm and improving circulation.
• Don’t soak your feet in water for long periods as this could destroy the natural oils‚ leading to very dry skin.
• Avoid wearing shoes or socks which are too tight as they can restrict your circulation or cramp your toes.
• Wash your feet every day in warm soapy water and dry thoroughly‚ especially between the toes.
• Remove hard skin gently with a pumice stone‚ but not if it is over a boney area or joint. In this case‚ or if the hard skin is painful‚ consult your chiropodist or podiatrist.
• Always wear good fitting footwear – the older you get the more you need a shoe which holds your foot in place to give adequate support. Lace up or Velcro fastenings give more support than a slip on shoe.
• Trim your toenails regularly‚ using proper nail clippers. Cut straight across‚ not too short‚ and not down at the orners as this can lead to in-growing toe nails.
•  Seek prompt treatment for burns‚ cuts or breaks in the skin‚ and for any unusual changes in colour or temperature. This is especially important if you have diabetes.

If you are having problems with your feet and feel you need chiropody treatment‚ you should discuss this with your doctor. S/he should be able to arrange free NHS chiropody treatment‚ but there may be a waiting list for this.

Further information

For more information on footcare please download our ageing well information sheet at the top right of this screen.