There is an ancient piece of Chinese wisdom that says, ‘You die from your feet up’.

Essentially, this is very simple advice to keep moving throughout your life, to ensure our ability to balance on our feet is good and an encouragement to take good care of our feet throughout our life, especially in later years.

Our feet play an immense role in carrying an individual over the weight – and length – of a lifetime, and we often take them and our ability to move for granted. However, without proper care early on, chronic pain and mobility issues can impact daily life. It’s vital that feet are routinely attended to and that items like footwear and exercise are considered.

“South Africa’s elderly population is steadily increasing, and this trend is likely to continue, which means we need to start taking care of our health early on to enjoy those later years,” commented Lynsey Hammond, MD for Kroko, manufacturer of leading South African footcare products.

“Our feet carry us through life, but we often take them for granted and overlook the importance of caring for our feet. What might seem like an insignificant foot pain or skin condition early on can become problematic in our senior years, so it’s vital that we consider taking essential steps now to keep our feet healthy.”

What are some common foot health challenges?

Hammond explained that there are some common foot complaints experienced by seniors, many of which can be prevented or symptoms diminished with proper foot health.

• Arthritis and joint pain: Stiffness and inflammation in the feet can make walking difficult.
• Bunions and corns: Years of pressure on the feet can lead to painful deformities.
• Circulatory issues: Poor blood flow can lead to peripheral neuropathy, peripheral arterial disease, reduced foot sensation, and other related foot problems.
• Heel and arch pain: Conditions like plantar fasciitis can cause discomfort with every step.
• Reduced flexibility: The natural arch of the foot flattens over time, affecting balance and comfort.
• Fungal infections: Though this condition can impact everyone, it commonly impacts men over the age of 60. Risk factors include obesity, diabetes, an overall weak immune system, or tissue damage on the foot.
• Cracked heels: Dryness and pressure can lead to painful cracks, increasing the risk of infection.

Kroko’s 5 tips for keeping feet healthy in seniors

Hammond says that keeping feet healthy doesn’t need to be an arduous task: “Preventing foot health issues in later years really just means making a few adjustments and adding some daily routines that promote healthy feet. The benefits of mobility and improved health as a senior really make these simple tips worth trying.”

Tip #1: Choose the right footwear

Comfortable footwear is vital at every age but the results will be most felt in later years. This means choosing well-cushioned, supportive shoes that have a wide toe box to prevent pressure points and improve balance. Ill-fitting shoes, as well as high heels and narrow shoes, can lead to issues ranging from blisters, corns, calluses, and bunions to deformities. Treat any calluses and corns early with Kroko’s Corn and Callus Remover, Kroko’s Medicated Plasters, Kroko’s Corn Protectors, or Kroko’s CornFix.

Tip #2: Stretch and strengthen

Improve foot circulation, flexibility, and strength with gentle foot and ankle exercises. Elevate the feet when sitting for long periods of time to reduce swelling, and avoid crossing legs for extended times as this impedes circulation.

Tip #3: Trim nails properly

Toenails must be trimmed regularly – and cut straight across – to prevent painful conditions like ingrown toenails that could lead to serious infections. Use a file to smooth any edges and reduce the risk of snags or cuts. If vision is limited, consider professional nailcare.

Tip#4: Proper hygiene

Wash feet daily with warm water and soap, ensuring they are completely dry before applying moisturiser to prevent dryness and cracking. For existing cracks, use Kroko’s HeelFix or Heel Balm. To prevent fungal infections, especially for those with circulation issues, apply Kroko’s Foot Powder to absorb excess moisture.

Tip#5: Get help when needed

Persistent foot pain, changes in nail or skin health, or mobility issues shouldn’t be ignored. A podiatrist can help diagnose and manage conditions before they become serious. Regular check-ups can make all the difference in preventing long-term problems.

“It’s important to make ageing as pain-free as possible, but that means caring for your feet early on,” commented Hammond. “Our tried-and-tested range of Kroko footcare products are a cost-effective and simple way to keep feet healthy for years to come.”

Kroko has been keeping feet fresh since 1936, bringing tried-and-tested products that show results. To find out more about Kroko Foot Spray, Kroko Foot Powder, or any of the other Kroko footcare products, visit www.kroko.co.za or email info@kroko.co.za. Keep updated on all Kroko news by following Krokofootcare on Facebook or kroko_footcare on Instagram