Winter Foot Health and Safety for Seniors
Old man winter is definitely in town and we at NY Foot Health want to remind our senior patients that at this time of the year, additional precautions are necessary to ensure good podiatric health. Below are some cold-weather concerns and how to deal with them.
Prevent Falls—did you know that 50% of older adults will sustain a fall this year? In fact, falls are the leading cause of injury to seniors. That risk increases during winter when icy sidewalks and slushy, snowy walkways are common. There are ways you can reduce your chances of taking a spill:
Wear sturdy shoes with a low wide heel and a tread designed to give you traction on slick surfaces.
Plot your path. Before you get out of your car, look around for the best cleared walking area to get to your destination.
Don’t overcarry. Keeping your arms free means you can use them for holding onto railings and for balance. Carrying multiple packages in your arms prevents you from seeing the ground in front of you.
When the weather is bad, stay home! Most of the time, errands and appointments can wait.
Avoid Fungal Infections—there’s nothing fungi love more than dark, damp places. Heavy socks and closed shoes coupled with overheated cars, offices, and stores is the perfect recipe for athlete’s foot or toenail fungus. Be sure to keep extra socks with you and change them as soon as you notice that your feet feel damp. If you tend to perspire excessively, dust your feet with powder in the morning before putting your socks on. Wash feet daily with warm, soapy water.
Head Off Heel Fissures—the indoor heat and dry air commonly experienced during the winter months can take a toll on your skin. Use a rich, emollient moisturizer on your feet and heels every night and cover with a pair of cozy socks while your sleep. This will help keep skin supple and prevent dry, flaky skin and painful heel cracks.
Don’t forget to keep up with your regular foot care regimen, inspecting feet daily for changes or signs of a potential podiatric disorder. Contact your podiatrist promptly if you notice anything unusual. If you need to find a podiatrist in your community use our convenient online directory. For more ways to take care of your feet during every season, contact us.