April News: Take Care of Your Feet So You Can Keep Walking!

Keep Walking!

People are spending more time indoors. While walking around a city center may be common in some countries, people in the United States are walking much less. The lack of movement is a major issue for the current generation of seniors. Seniors should be walking often. Why? Walking will help:

  • Lessen the loss of bone mass and help avoid bone breaks.
  • Strengthen muscles, increase overall mobility and alleviate pressure on joints.
  • Improve circulation which lowers blood pressure and lessens the risk of heart disease.
  • Increase weight loss. Just 30 minutes per day burns an additional 200 calories.
  • Improve sleep, mental sharpness and outlook.
  • Increase balance and stability to avoid falls.

Seniors should be walking often.

Finally…Walking 30 minutes a day is recommended for seniors and people of all ages. A brisk walk can help you lead a happier, healthy life well into old age. Regular walking will also greatly reduce the need for a walker or other type of walking aid.

 

Keep Your Feet Healthy

If you are not walking well due to foot pain, pay attention to your feet. When your feet feel good, you can walk more. Foot health problems may also be signs of more serious health concerns like diabetes, arthritis, poor blood circulation and nerve damage. So keep an eye on your feet!

 

Follow these important guidelines recommended by AW Health Care:

  1. Foot Hygiene – Feet should be washed daily, taking special care to wash between the toes. Dry feet thoroughly. Damp feet in shoes lead to infection and fungus.
  2. Foot Inspections – Watch for small cuts and sore spots which can lead to more serious infections.
  3. Nail Care – Trim nails properly to avoid ingrown toenails and various infections.
  4. Foot Care for Diabetics – Daily foot inspections and routine doctor visits are a “MUST”! Wear diabetic shoes, and avoid going barefoot and soaking feet in hot water.
  5. Proper Footwear – Protect and support your feet with proper non-slip footwear…and socks.

See your podiatrist for troublesome foot problems.

If you have trouble with any of these recommendations, call AW Health Care. We can help you shop for shoes, manage your nail care, help you spot problems early and call your doctor when needed. (314) 726-5600

 

Earth Day Is April 22

Plan your garden…swap seedlings with friends…share gardening tips…clean out your closet and donate…get outside for a nature walk!

Time to enjoy the outdoors!

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