Your mom is less mobile as time passes. She used to walk each day and work for hours in her garden. When foot pain limits your mom’s mobility, what should you or her home care provider do to help her become more mobile?
Understanding the cause of the pain is the first step to take.
What Are the Common Causes of Foot Pain in Older Adults?
So many things can cause foot pain. Start with one of the most common. Do your mom’s shoes fit properly? If her shoes are too loose or too tight, they may rub and cause sores and blisters that make it hard to walk.
Ill-fitting shoes may lead to calluses and corns that hurt. They may not support the arch of the foot properly and lead to painful strains.
Does your mom have arthritis? The joints in the feet may be sore due to arthritis. Gout is another type of arthritis that’s caused by the build-up of uric acid. It usually affects the big toe and can be incredibly painful.
Check your mom’s toenails. If she has an ingrown nail, it will be painful and can lead to infection. If her nails are longer than they should be, her nails could be cutting into neighboring toes when she puts shoes on. Nails should be trimmed straight across the nail and barely reach the end of the toe.
Is your mom diabetic? Has she been checked? Diabetic neuropathy is a condition where diabetes damages the nerves. It can cause pain, tingling, and infection. She needs to have her feet checked regularly for sores and cuts that could become infected. Keeping her feet clean, dry, and moisturized is important.
The Next Steps to Take
Talk to your mom’s doctor. It’s a good idea to ask about having a referral to a podiatrist. A foot doctor will help determine the best ways to treat the pain and help her become more mobile. A home care provider can accompany your senior to all types of doctor appointments.
Exercise is important. Once her foot pain is lessened, make sure she takes a 30-minute walk each day. If she can walk for longer, encourage her to do so.
Does your mom struggle to reach her feet? If she’s not limber enough, it’s time to consider having home care services to help her with foot care. It will be to her benefit to have someone who can wash and dry her feet, apply moisturizer, and trim her nails.
What if you’re not around to encourage your mom to get up and be active? Your mom can have a home care aide join her on walks. Home care aides do more than help with housework and meals. They offer companionship and encouragement.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering elder care in Walnut Creek, CA, please contact the caring staff at Provident Care Home Care today at (209) 578-1210.
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