Taking care of a loved one who has dementia is a difficult task. Although the
condition of their feet may be the last thing on your mind, proper foot care is
just as crucial to their general wellbeing as their personal hygiene, diet, or
general health.
For dementia patients, foot health problems are worse since they sometimes
find it difficult to articulate what is hurting them. In fact, a loss of sensitivity
may cause them to be completely unconscious of any issues at all. Their
propensity to wander, often for hours, makes matters worse by adding to the
stress on their feet.
Problems escalate
Over time, the fatty padding in foot deteriorates. Without this barrier, bones
and muscles are vulnerable to stress and deterioration. Older persons
frequently experience loss of flexibility, problems with blood flow, and
collapsed arches.
Just a few of the disorders that can develop include infections, toenail
problems, hammertoe, bunions, corns, and calluses. Any of these can cause
balance and mobility issues, putting your loved one at danger of falling and
suffering additional harm.
Inspect their feet frequently
By periodically inspecting your loved one's feet and include them in their daily
cleanliness regimen, you can prevent issues before they arise. Speak to a
podiatrist if you notice anything that doesn't appear to be correct. These
issues won't just go away by themselves; they only become worse.
Clean and hydrate
Bacterial and fungal diseases can be effectively avoided with careful cleaning
in warm water with soap. Just remember to dry everything well, including in
between the toes. Patients with dementia may find it difficult to take a daily
bath, but you can keep their feet clean by gently wiping them with a flannel.
This can be incredibly calming, especially if done right before bed.
Older skin is drier, flakier, and more prone to infection, cracking, and ulcers.
By routinely moisturizing, you can bolster your defenses against this. After
washing, it's a good idea to apply this, but make sure the skin is completely
dry first and steer clear of the toes.
Maintain proper nail care
Long toenails can undermine stability, trap dirt, spread infections, and result in
falls. By frequently trimming your loved one's toenails, you can prevent this.
If you're doing this by yourself, make sure the nail is cut straight across and
that you gently file the edges. Avoid the temptation to round off the ends
because doing so can result in painful ingrown toenails when they grow into
the body.
If at all possible, anyone who has diabetes or other foot issues should have
their nails clipped by a podiatrist.
Comfortable shoes and robes
Shoes must fit properly in order to provide support and protection for feet and
ankles. For elderly or less mobile adults, worn-out shoes—and especially
slippers—are a major contributing factor in falls.
To keep your loved one
secure and comfortable, make sure their feet are measured by professionals.
We recommend wearing safe and comfortable DrLuigi Medical shoes.
Optimal Circulation
Circulation is hampered by a lack of mobility or diseases like diabetes. Heart
disorders, strokes, and blood clots are just a few of the significant issues that
can result from this.
Gently massage the elderly person to promote healthy
blood flow, and make sure they sit with their feet raised. Compression socks
may be beneficial as well.