Geriatric foot care is careful podological care for the skin and nails of older adults, planned around the changes that come with age. Over time, skin becomes thinner and drier, nails can grow thicker and harder, and bending down to reach the feet gets more difficult. Changes in eyesight and hand dexterity can also make trimming nails at home a challenge. The aim of this care is to help keep feet clean, comfortable and healthy, and to support everyday mobility.
Sessions are never rushed and are adapted to each person’s comfort and range of movement. A family member or carer is welcome to stay with you throughout, and we share home-care advice with them as well. If we notice anything during the session that calls for a medical opinion, we will refer you to the appropriate doctor.
Who is it for?
- Older adults who find it hard to bend, reach their feet or cut their own nails
- People with thickened, hardened or curling toenails
- Anyone with thin, dry skin that bruises or tears easily
- People who need extra care because of diabetes, circulation problems or blood-thinning medication
- Those who feel discomfort walking because of corns, calluses or cracked heels
- Families who want a regular, dependable foot care routine for a loved one
How a session is planned
- Getting to know you: We talk about general health, current medications, any mobility limits and day-to-day needs, then check the skin, nails, foot shape and footwear.
- Comfortable positioning and hygiene: We make sure you are seated comfortably. Your feet are cleaned with an antiseptic solution, and sterile instruments and single-use materials are used.
- Nail care: Thickened nails are gradually thinned with a fine rotary tool and shortened, and the nail edges are cleaned. We work slowly and with care around delicate skin.
- Skin care: Corns, calluses and hardened skin are gently reduced and dry skin is moisturized. Protective padding may be suggested for pressure points.
- Guidance for you and your carer: We explain simple daily checks, suitable socks and shoes, and agree on when to come back.
Home care and everyday tips
- Check the feet every day, with help from a family member if needed, looking for redness, wounds or color changes.
- After washing, pat the skin between the toes dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing.
- Moisturize the heels and soles daily to protect thin skin.
- Choose shoes with non-slip soles that hold the foot securely and are easy to put on and take off.
- Wear seam-free socks with cuffs that do not dig in.
- Do not force thick nails with clippers at home; plan regular podological visits instead.
When to see a doctor
In older age, some foot changes can be linked to general health. We recommend seeing a doctor if you notice:
- A wound that will not close, or redness, swelling or discharge
- New swelling, coldness or color change in the foot or leg
- Numbness, burning or reduced feeling
- Pain or balance problems that affect walking
- A dark spot or line under a nail
In these cases we refer you or your loved one to the relevant doctor, such as an internist, dermatologist, orthopedist or vascular surgeon. Podological care then continues in line with their recommendations.
