How do you care & trim nails for the elderly
First just knowing basic nail care for your elderly Mum or Dad’s nails can prevent further problems. Most common problems range from thick nails, brittleness, split or cracked nails. Also pinched and curved toenails. As well as dryness and redness of hands or feet.
Because as we age our nails growth rate slows down considerably. Then any damage that occurs in fingernails or toenails, will take that much longer to recover. By being aware of how to trim nails for the elderly. You can prevent further damage if they have any their nail disorders
Basic tips on caring for their hands and feet
- Keep hands and in particular feet clean and dry
- Check regularly for changes in their nails
- Be aware which medication can cause nail disorders
- Regular nail trimming for the elderly is important
- Also weekly hands and feet massage to promote circulation
- Daily moisturising is needed if dryness is due to medications
- Change socks every day and encourage good supportive and fitted footwear
- Encourage 4 to 6 weeks regular seniors mani’s or pedi’s
- Recommend a yearly checkup with a Podiatrist
What’s the correct way to trim elderly nails
Preferably when nails are dry try cut them straight across. If nails are extremely thick then try soaking about 10 minutes first. Thick, ingrown, curving nails should always be cut straight across. It can sometimes be easier to do 2 or 3 small trims instead of one big one.
Nail clippers are good for large nails or reasonably healthy nails . Where clippers can be more helpful for difficult or mishaped nails. If your Mum or Dad aren’t well enough to go out consider a monthly Mobile Manicure or Pedicure
Basic nail disorders for hands and feet
- Thick toenails are very common in elderly because as we age our nails thicken. From fungal infections to skin conditions. As well as injuries or tight-fitting shoes are common causes of this nail disorder in the elderly. Trimming thickened nails may need 10 minutes soaking first. Then using your nail clippers by doing 1 – 3 small clips. Always file them straight across
- Brittle, Split or Cracked Nails When toenails thicken they can also tend to become discoloured, brittle and cracked. Applying a good quality or natural moisturiser daily will help. Also try the occasional hand treatments or foot treatments. With either nail clippers or nippers gently trim and file straight across.
- Pincher or Trumpet nails can be caused by fungal infection, skin diseases, medications or mainly arthritic changes. It’s probably a good idea to have a Podiatrist or Nail Technician cut them correctly first. But ideally you need to cut them in the corner with nippers. Then file them straight across here’s how. To maintain every week file the corner of the nail and file straight across
- Curvature nails this type of nail disorder it can be caused from genetics, nail trauma or diet. As well as incorrect nail trimming or tight shoes. You need to cut in a straight line, not too short and on a regular basis
