June is Seniors’ Month and Canadian Certified Pedorthists – C. Ped (C) – across Canada are ready to deliver top tips and advice on how to help your feet age gracefully. Here are some facts about seniors and footcare to start off the month:

  • According to the 2016 Census the population of seniors now outnumber children in Canada 5.9 million to 5.8 million. It is anticipated that the scale will continue to be tipped for years to come.
  • Though frequency of health problems rises with increase in age, over half of seniors report they are in “good health”, defined by the World Health Organization as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being.”
  • As such, seniors are maintaining an active lifestyle for longer and they’re remaining in the workforce longer.
  • Age-related foot problems include fat pad atrophy (breakdown), boney deformities such as hallux valgus and bunions, hammer, claw or mallet toes, neuromas, corns, callouses, nail disorders, arthritis, reduced circulation, and peripheral neuropathy. These problems can lead to discomfort or pain.
  • Canadian Certified Pedorthists – C. Ped (C) – can help to determine helpful approaches to alleviate the discomfort associated with these conditions through assessment and implementing a treatment plan that could involve thorough shoe fitting, off-the-shelf or custom orthopaedic shoes, off-the-shelf or custom foot orthotics, compression socks, bracing, toe props or spacers, and more.

Quick tips for footcare:

  • Develop a habit of checking your feet daily. If you have trouble seeing your feet, it’s important to get someone to look at them for you or use a mirror.
  • When possible, choose footwear that has an adjustable fit instead of slip-ons. Laces, buckles, and Velcro straps can accommodate conditions such as painful boney prominences, swelling, and toe deformities.
  • Consult your health care provider if the texture, colour or temperature of any part of your feet change.

Be sure to check back frequently this month as we share more tips and facts about aging and footcare!