Thoughtful Gift Ideas for the Seniors in Your Life

It’s the holiday season and time for that time-honored tradition – gift giving! Whether you’re shopping for an older relative or friend, or your senior neighbor,  Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Anne Arundel County, Maryland has some thoughtful gift suggestions. These gifts will also serve as friendly reminders that seniors need to care for their feet, particularly during the colder months.  

We find that feet are often overlooked as the weather gets colder and people begin to add more layers of clothing. And because of this, seniors are more at risk of overlooking changes in their feet or signs of a problem.  

Here are some great gift ideas for the seniors in your life while keeping their foot health in mind.

Good Moisturizers: Omitting moisturizer during cold months can affect your skin, and for seniors who suffer from diabetes, this is even more concerning. Dry, cracked skin can become sore and painful, and if there is bleeding, an infection can develop. Gifting them with a good moisturizing cream or lotion can help keep skin soft and smooth.

Soft, Warm Socks: Walking with no shoes on your feet not only puts you at risk of having cold feet, but it also presents an opportunity for running into or stepping on an object without an added layer of protection. Seniors who are diabetic and experience peripheral neuropathy, may not even realize that they’ve suffered an injury to their foot. Shop for socks that provide just enough cushion and warmth without the tightness of an elastic band, as this can affect circulation and irritate the skin.

Company and Encouragement: During the holidays you may need to encourage a senior loved one to see their podiatrist because they may be afraid about what’s causing their diminished mobility. But encouraging them to go and even offering to accompany them can be very beneficial.

If you notice that a senior in your life has fallen, or is experiencing pain when walking, suggest some ways a podiatrist can help and follow-up with them.

If you’d like to learn more about senior foot care or need more gift suggestions, contact the office of Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Glen Burnie, Maryland at (410) 761-3501.