Foot Clinic Volunteers Needed

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Livingston Foot Clinic operates under the supervision of a Registered Nurse on the first and third Wednesday of each month. Volunteers are needed to give pedicures to seniors. Did you know that proper foot and nail care is one of the most overlooked aspects of personal care among senior citizens. Many people are either too embarrassed to ask a loved one for help and many seniors cannot properly care for their nails and minor foot ailments due to a loss of some of their natural abilities such as vision, strength, dexterity and flexibility.

• The Basic Services offered at each clinic can be assured that there are no foot problems that are going undetected.
• This is especially important for people with diabetes, and for those with circulatory problems.
• Clients also receive nail trimming, and corn and callous treatment.
• Nourishing balms are also applied to help condition the skin.

Having feet that are in good condition is vital for both our mobility and health. However, maintaining good foot care is particularly important for seniors because failing to do so can lead to many serious problems, including a loss of independence. Here are some of the associated risks:

• Loss of Mobility and Independence. Seniors are particularly prone to various foot problems such as corns, blisters and other infections, because the skin is less thick than it used to be, as well as less elastic. They are also less able to cut their own toenails, which can lead to infections such as fungal infections, ingrown toenails or thickened toenails. These problems can lead to a loss of mobility and independence. Foot problems also make it more lit likely that a senior will become much less active, which can also contribute very negatively to their health.
• Physical Pain and Increased Risk of Falls. A reduction in activity levels will also make feet less strong and less flexible than if they were being utilized. Weak feet can cause physical pain, including backaches, leg cramps and fatigue, as feet become stiff. In turn, the physical pain can go on to negatively impact one’s mental health. The strength of one’s feet also determines posture and our one distributes his or her weight. Weak feet can cause balance problems, which can put seniors at an increased risk of falls and serious injuries such as hip fractures.

The American Podiatric Medical Association states that by the time an American reaches the age of 50, on average, he or she has already walked a total of 75,000 miles. This fact sheds some light on the reason seniors frequently suffer with foot disorders that lead to pain. According to Foot.com, foot disorders are usually painful and reduce a senior’s mobility: Elderly patients who have foot disorders are more likely to need additional assistance from their caregivers.