The most profound demographic change of the twentieth century is the aging of American society. For older people to live useful, satisfying lives, they must be able to move about. Mobility is a vital ingredient for independence that is cherished by our aging population. Foot ailments can make it difficult to participate in activities.
The average person walks 69 million steps in a lifetime. Progressively, the fat pads that cushion the bottom of the feet atrophy. The skin becomes drier and thinner losing some of its elasticity. Toenails are more likely to become thick or brittle with underlying fungus making them difficult to care for. Painful calluses and corns may result from crooked toes from years of wearing improper or heeled shoes. Each of the 33 joints in the foot can be afflicted with arthritis. Loss of bone strength can increase the risk of fractures. Numbness and painful sensations in the feet can be bothersome and affect ones balance. These conditions can be treated.
Good foot care can improve the quality of life for aging patients by increasing comfort, limiting the possibilities of additional medical problems, reducing chances of hospitalization because of infection and reducing requirements for other institutional care. The US Department of Health and Human Resources campaign, endorsed by podiatric physicians, encourages understanding and application of preventive medical practices. Diabetics can receive shoe gear with insoles annually to prevent sores on their feet.