The Importance of Podiatry in Supporting Healthy Ageing and Mobility

As people grow older, foot health often becomes a hidden challenge. Many seniors face discomfort, pain, or mobility issues linked to their feet, yet foot care is frequently overlooked. Maintaining healthy feet is not just about comfort; it directly affects independence, balance, and the ability to stay active. Regular podiatry care plays a vital role in helping older adults maintain mobility and reduce the risk of falls.

How Ageing Changes the Feet

The feet undergo several natural changes with age that can impact overall health and mobility:

• Thinning skin and reduced circulation: Older skin becomes fragile and blood flow slows, increasing the risk of wounds and infections.

• Thickened toenails: Nails may become harder to trim and more prone to fungal infections.

• Pressure points, corns, and calluses: These develop due to changes in foot shape and gait, causing discomfort.

• Foot deformities: Conditions like bunions or claw toes become more common and can affect walking.

• Reduced balance and stability: Foot pain or deformities can lead to instability.

• Slower healing: Cuts or sores take longer to heal, raising the risk of complications.

  
  

Chronic health issues such as diabetes, arthritis, and vascular disease often worsen foot problems. For example, diabetes can cause nerve damage and poor circulation, making foot care essential to prevent ulcers and infections.

Why Older Adults Need Regular Podiatry Care

Many seniors struggle to care for their feet safely. Limited flexibility, vision problems, or balance issues make tasks like nail trimming risky. This can lead to untreated foot problems that worsen over time.

Podiatrists provide expert care that helps:

• Prevent painful nail and skin conditions: Regular trimming and treatment reduce discomfort.

• Lower infection and ulcer risks: Early detection and care stop minor issues from becoming serious.

• Improve walking comfort: Treatments for corns, calluses, and deformities make movement easier.

• Support balance and reduce falls: Healthy feet contribute to stability and confidence.

• Identify problems early: Podiatrists catch issues before they escalate.

  
  

Sydney Mobile Podiatry provides home services to many older Australians to ensure their foot health is optimal and to improve their quality of life. If you or someone you know would benefit from a podiatry home visit please contact us on 02 8068 7547 or sydneymobilepodiatry@outlook.com.au

We are also able to see individuals on home care packages, DVA, NDIS and other government schemes.