From Balance to Mobility: Why Senior Foot Care and Podiatrists are More Important Than Ever

Every step you take depends on your feet. But as you age, your feet change. You might notice pain, swelling, or trouble finding comfortable shoes. What you may not realize is that poor foot health can put you at serious risk. Falls, loss of mobility, and chronic pain often start from the ground up.

Nearly 36 million falls occur annually among older adults in the U.S., leading to over 32,000 deaths. Poor foot health is a major contributor. That's why podiatrists—specialists in foot and ankle care—play a critical role in helping seniors stay active and independent.

Why Foot Health Declines with Age

Aging affects every part of your body, and your feet are no exception. Here's what happens:

• Loss of Fat Padding: The natural cushioning on the soles of your feet thins, leading to pain and discomfort.
• Arthritis: Joint inflammation causes stiffness and difficulty walking.
• Circulation Problems: Reduced blood flow slows healing and increases the risk of infections.
• Diabetic Complications: Diabetes can lead to nerve damage, ulcers, and even amputation if untreated.
• Structural Changes: Bunions, hammertoes, and fallen arches become more common.

How Podiatrists Keep Seniors Moving

Podiatrists do more than treat foot pain—they help prevent life-altering injuries and loss of mobility. Their role includes:

• Diagnosing and Treating Foot Conditions: From corns to diabetic ulcers, podiatrists identify problems early to prevent complications.
• Recommending Proper Footwear: The right shoes can relieve pain, improve balance, and reduce fall risk.
• Custom Orthotics: Shoe inserts help correct foot mechanics and alleviate pain.
• Managing Chronic Conditions: They provide specialized care for arthritis, diabetes, and circulation issues.
• Educating Seniors: Proper foot care routines keep problems from escalating.

Based on individual assessments, podiatrists develop personalized care plans. These may include recommendations for orthotic devices, specific footwear, physical therapy, or medical treatments to address conditions like arthritis or diabetic foot complications.​

Choosing the Right Footwear for Stability and Comfort

Wearing supportive, well-fitting shoes can make a huge difference in your comfort and safety. Look for:

• Arch Support and Cushioning: Distributes weight evenly and eases joint stress.
• Wide Toe Box: Prevents crowding and reduces pressure on bunions and hammertoes.
• Non-Slip Soles: Helps prevent slips and falls.

Recommended brands for seniors include:

• OAKA Studio: OAKA offers designs that promote natural foot movement. Stylish, zero-drop shoes that promote natural foot movement.
• Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24: Excellent stability and cushioning for daily walking.
• Vionic Shoes: Podiatrist-designed with built-in arch support.

Daily Foot Care to Prevent Problems

Simple habits can keep your feet healthy and pain-free:

• Wash and Dry Thoroughly: Prevents infections, especially between toes.
• Moisturize Daily: Keeps skin from cracking and reduces the risk of sores.
• Trim Toenails Properly: Straight across to prevent ingrown nails.
• Check Your Feet Regularly: Look for cuts, swelling, or color changes.

Preventing Falls with Stronger Feet and Better Balance

Foot problems increase the risk of falls, but the right strategies can help:

• Exercise for Foot Strength: Try toe curls, heel raises, and ankle circles. Exercises like "toe yoga" and calf raises can enhance toe strength and balance, reducing the risk of falls. ​
• Stay Active: Walking and swimming improve circulation and joint flexibility.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Extra pounds put pressure on your feet and joints.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking reduces circulation and slows healing.

Cost of Foot Care and Long-Term Health

Ignoring foot problems can lead to bigger issues, including costly hospital visits and loss of independence. If foot pain forces you to limit activity, your overall health declines. Reduced mobility increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes complications, and even cognitive decline. The need for long-term care services increases with age and those with foot problems need additional help.

For those needing ongoing long-term care services at home or in a facility, foot care will be a priority for those who require such care. You can find quality caregivers and long-term care facilities by using the LTC News Caregiver Directory. The directory has over 80,000 caregivers and facilities, and you can search for them based on location.

Use the LTC News Cost of Care Calculator to estimate expenses in your area. If your loved one has Long-Term Care Insurance, the policy will pay for this care in the desired setting.

LTC News also offers assistance processing claims from any Long-Term Care Insurance policy. Partnering with Amada Senior Care, LTC News ensures that you and your loved ones receive quality care without worrying about securing their LTC Insurance benefits. There is no cost or obligation for this service - Filing a Long-Term Care Insurance Claim.

When to See a Podiatrist

Don't ignore foot pain or changes. See a podiatrist if you experience:

• Persistent pain or swelling
• Tingling, numbness, or burning (signs of neuropathy)
• Sores that don't heal
• Changes in nail color or thickness
• Frequent falls or balance issues

Protecting Your Mobility Starts with Your Feet

Your feet carry you through life, but they need care too. If you're experiencing discomfort, don't wait—small problems can quickly turn serious.

A podiatrist can help you stay on your feet, maintain your independence, and improve your quality of life. Are your feet holding you back? Take the first step toward better mobility today to maintain a better quality of life in the years and decades ahead.