👣 Common Foot Problems in Seniors & How to Prevent Them

As we age, the skin, nails, and joints of our feet change. Thinner skin, reduced circulation, and years of “mileage” make older adults more vulnerable to seemingly small issues that can quickly snowball into pain, mobility loss, or infection. In fact, proactive care is one of the competencies highlighted in the 2025 Canadian Association of Foot Care Nurses framework because it can “prevent complications, reduce pain, and improve mobility.” Canadian Association of Footcare Nurses

Below are the foot problems I see most often in my mobile practice at Sole Survivor Foot Care, and evidence‑based steps you (and the people you care for) can take to stay one step ahead.

1. Corns & Calluses

What they are: Localized (corns) or diffuse (calluses) areas of thick, hard skin caused by repeated pressure or friction, often from ill‑fitting footwear or bony prominences. NCBI

Why common in seniors: Loss of natural fat padding, toe deformities, and shoes that no longer match a foot that’s changed shape over decades.

Prevention & early action

Tip	Why it helps
Wear shoes with a roomy toe box and low heel	Reduces friction points and pressure. NIH News in HealthNCBI
Use protective pads or cushioning insoles	Off‑loads hotspots before a corn forms.
Keep skin supple with a urea‑based moisturizer	Soft, hydrated skin is less likely to thicken.
Book professional debridement instead of using over‑the‑counter “shavers”	Safer and more precise, especially if you have diabetes or thin skin.

2. Fungal Nail Infections (Onychomycosis)

What it is: A slow‑growing fungal invasion that thickens, yellows, or distorts toenails.

Why common in seniors: Diminished immunity, slower nail growth, and years of exposure in communal areas like pools or gyms.

Prevention & early action

• Keep feet clean and dry. Change socks daily and alternate shoes so they dry out overnight. NIH News in Health

• Trim and thin nails properly. Thick nails create pockets where fungus thrives.

• Disinfect tools. Home clippers and salon instruments should be sterilized between uses.

• See an LPN/foot‑care professional early. Maintenance treatments or prescription antifungals are far more effective before the infection spreads through the nail matrix. American Academy of Dermatology

3. Ingrown Toenails

What it is: The nail edge grows into surrounding skin, triggering pain, redness, or infection—most often on the big toe.

Prevention & early action

Do ✅	Don’t ❌
Trim nails straight across and level with the toe tip.	Round the corners or cut nails too short.
Choose shoes that leave wiggle‑room for toes.	Wear tight, pointy, or high‑heeled shoes that compress the forefoot.
Wear protective footwear during activities that could stub or compress toes.	Ignore persistent tenderness or swelling—especially if you have diabetes.

Simple nail‑care habits are proven to prevent the majority of ingrown nails. Mayo Clinic

4. Dry, Cracked Heels & Thin Skin

Dry skin loses elasticity and can fissure, opening a pathway for bacterial or fungal infection. Seniors are especially prone because skin cell turnover slows with age.

Prevention & early action

• Daily inspection. Look for new cracks, colour changes, or swelling. guidelines.diabetes.ca

• Wash, dry (especially between toes), and moisturize. Unscented creams with ceramides or urea lock in moisture without making skin slippery. NIH News in Health

• Stay hydrated and wear cotton‑blend or moisture‑wicking socks.

5. The Bigger Picture: Diabetes & Fall Risk

If you live with diabetes, neuropathy and poor circulation mean even a tiny blister can progress to a serious ulcer. Consistent professional foot care, proper footwear, and patient education are cornerstones of every diabetes foot‑care guideline in Canada. guidelines.diabetes.ca

Poor foot health can also increase fall risk; regular foot assessments detect issues that affect balance and gait. PMC

Your Foot‑Care “Daily Five”

1. Inspect tops, bottoms, and between toes every day.

2. Wash & dry thoroughly; use lukewarm water and mild soap.

3. Moisturize; but skip the spaces between toes to prevent excess moisture.

4. Choose footwear that fits today’s foot size and shape, not yesterday’s.

5. Trim nails straight across; use a file to smooth edges.

When to Call a Professional

• Persistent pain, redness, or swelling

• Thick nails you can’t manage safely

• Corns/calluses that return quickly

• Any wound that isn’t improving after 24 hours

• Loss of sensation or sudden colour changes

Early, skilled intervention is faster, cheaper, and far less painful than treating a full‑blown complication later.

Ready for Happier, Healthier Feet?

As a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) providing mobile foot care across Fredericton North, Pepper Creek, Chipman, and nearby communities, I bring sterilized equipment and evidence‑based care right to your door.

Book your next appointment or ask a question any time, your feet will thank you!

References

1. Canadian Association of Foot Care Nurses. Competency Framework (2025). Canadian Association of Footcare Nurses

2. NIH News in Health. Focus on Your Feet! (2023). NIH News in Health

3. StatPearls. Corns (2025 update). NCBI

4. American Academy of Dermatology. Nail Fungus: Diagnosis & Treatment (updated June 26 2025). American Academy of Dermatology

5. Mayo Clinic. Ingrown Toenails—Prevention (updated Apr 30 2025). Mayo Clinic

6. Diabetes Canada Clinical Practice Guidelines. Chapter 32: Foot Care (2023). guidelines.diabetes.ca

7. Foot Examination for Older Adults. American Family Physician review (2020). PMC

Information in this post is educational and not a substitute for in‑person medical assessment. If you’re unsure, reach out to a qualified health professional.