Congratulations! You have earned the status of SENIOR CITIZEN. Your age entitles you to retire, receive discounts, and even play Bingo 5 nights a week if you want! But aging also has its downfalls. Remember-you probably don't move as fast as you used to and your body seems to echo aches and pains. You might get winded performing normal day- to-day activities, while your sense of altered balance leaves you prone to falls and accidents. The elderly are subject to many foot disorders that leave them handicapped if not prevented or treated. Some of these disorders include: arthritis, ingrown toenails, fungal nails, diabetic ulcers, and even corns and calluses.

As a senior citizen, you have a responsibility to yourself of keeping your feet healthy so that as you age, you can still participate in and enjoy life's daily activities.

TIPS FOR SENIORS

*Don't rush. Take your time. Society will wait for you. Rushing only increases your accident potential. Use handrails and canes when necessary. In the bathtub, use the grab bar. Avoid bath oils, as the tub floor is already very slippery.

*Keep floors and hallways in the home free of stray objects. Also, do not use "throw rugs" in entryways or stairwells. They are slippery and hazardous.

*Keep moving! A daily exercise routine contributes to a healthy body and mind. Walking is an ideal form of exercise for seniors. Depending on one's physical condition, walking can be combined with brisk walks and jogging, offering strengthening benefits to the feet, as well as the heart and lungs.

FOOTCARE FOR SENIORS

*See your podiatrist regularly. Prevention and maintenance are the best sources of healthy feet.

*Inspect your feet daily, especially if you are a diabetic. (SEE DIABETIC FOOT MANAGEMENT). If you are unable to see your feet adequately, ask for assistance. Don't ignore the two things that enable you to participate in life's daily activities.

*Avoid walking barefoot. Wear soft leather shoes that offer support and that are made with rubber soles and heels. (SEE FOOTWARE PROGRAM)

*Ask your podiatrist if you are a candidate for orthotics. Orthotics will improve foot function, offer arch support, and act as a shock absorber. (SEE ORTHOTICS)

*Keep feet clean, warm and dry. Apply lotion to dry feet and powder to moist feet.

*Trim toenails straight across, not down into the corners. Avoid cutting nails too short. Nails should never be cut down to the flesh. See your podiatrist if you are unable to cut your own nails.

*Never use commercial corn pads or medicines. They often burn and irritate the skin, doing more damage. (SEE BUNIONS AND CORNS)

*Avoid sitting with your knees crossed, as it reduces circulation. Wearing circular garters and elastic banded hose also reduces circulation.

*Seek surgical intervention when necessary. A chronic source of pain or irritation can be eliminated by a simple surgical procedure, restoring a patient's quality of life.

Foot Tip:

Inspect your feet daily. If you have trouble seeing your feet, ask for help. Wear comfortable, sensible shoes with rubber shoes to avoid falls.

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