Geriatric Foot Care Awareness: Walking into Old Age

Abstract

Foot health is a fundamental yet frequently overlooked aspect of geriatric healthcare that directly influences mobility, independence, and overall quality of life in individuals aged 60 years and above. This study highlights the growing burden of geriatric foot disorders and emphasizes the importance of early prevention, awareness, and routine podiatric care. Age-related physiological changes, including skin thinning, reduced muscle mass, fat pad atrophy, impaired circulation, neuropathy, and decreased bone density, significantly increase susceptibility to foot complications in the elderly population. Common conditions identified include diabetic foot ulcers, bunions, arthritis, fungal infections, plantar fasciitis, nail disorders, and chronic skin fissures, all of which are further aggravated by risk factors such as diabetes mellitus, peripheral arterial disease, obesity, poor hygiene, reduced mobility, and inappropriate footwear. The study further demonstrates that neglected foot conditions can progress to severe complications including chronic ulcers, osteomyelitis, falls, fractures, septicemia, lower-limb amputations, and loss of independence. Evidence indicates that a large proportion of diabetes-related amputations are preventable through timely intervention and regular podiatric assessment. Preventive strategies such as daily foot inspection, proper nail and skin care, blood sugar control, supportive footwear, regular exercise, and scheduled podiatry checkups are therefore essential to preserving functional mobility and reducing healthcare burden. Overall, the study underscores the urgent need for improved geriatric footcare awareness, multidisciplinary management, and accessible podiatric services to promote healthy aging and enhance quality of life among older adults.