The Importance of Foot Care for Diabetics

Diabetes can cause damage to blood vessels and nerves. When this happens, blood flow to the feet can be affected. A loss of feeling, or numbness, can make injury more possible, too. In fact, feet problems account for about one in five occurrences of hospital care for diabetics. Because of the risk for foot problems, it’s important that diabetics take special care of their feet to avoid even more serious complications, including amputation. Below are tips for taking care of the feet of an older adult with diabetes.

Senior Care in South Jordan UT: Foot Care for Diabetics

Cleanse Feet Daily

Use warm (not hot) water and mild soap to wash the older adult’s feet every day. Instead of rubbing the feet dry with a towel, pat them dry. Make sure the feet are completely dry and then apply lotion to keep the skin from getting dry and cracking. Do not put lotion between the toes.

• Inspect Feet for Injury or Changes
• Look over the senior’s feet daily. Look for the following:
• Dry or cracked skin.
• Redness and/or a feeling of warmth.
• A feeling of tenderness when touched.
• Blisters.
• Cuts.
• Scratches.
• Ingrown toenails.
• Calluses or corns.
• Choose the Right Shoes

It’s a good idea for diabetics to wear shoes at all times to prevent injury to the feet. Before putting shoes on, shake them out to remove any debris that could hurt their feet. Shoes should be comfortable right from the moment they are purchased. Discourage the senior from purchasing shoes that they believe they need to “break in.” They may cause blisters. Change shoes every five hours to avoid pressure sores. Also, seniors should wear clean, dry socks without holes.

Trim Toenails Safely

Try trimming the senior’s toenails after a bath when the nails are soft. This will make it easier to clip them and prevent injuring the toe. Cut toenails straight across without cutting into the corners of the toes. Also, never trim the cuticles.

Don’t Self-Treat

Take care of minor problems, like blisters and cuts immediately. Wash the wounded area and apply fresh bandages frequently. If the senior develop calluses, corns, or other more serious problems, report them to the doctor. Do not try to treat foot problems at home unless instructed by a doctor.

Diabetic foot care can be time-consuming. Home care can assist with foot care tasks. A home care provider can wash and inspect the senior’s feet every day. Home care providers can also apply lotion and cut toenails. They can also assist older adults to put their shoes on. If your aging relative does get a blister or cut, a home care provider can keep the sore clean and bandaged.

Are you or a loved one considering  Senior Care in South Jordan, UT? Please talk to the friendly staff at December Rose Senior Care at Home. Providing Home Care in Highland, Utah and Surrounding Communities. 801-427-ROSE (7673)

Sources

http://www.diabetes.org

https://www.webmd.com

https://medlineplus.gov