Foot Care: The Problems That Should Not Be Overlooked among Diabetic Elders in Community
Keywords:
foot care, elderly, diabetes, communityAbstract
Foot care among the elderly is important especially among the elderly with Diabetes Mellitus (DM). The main cause and factor of wounds from diabetic pathology and combined with a variety of physical and physiological changes. Therefore, the incidence of foot ulcers in the elderly with diabetes is essential to prevent complications. Foot ulcers among the elderly with DM is an important complication which could lead to foot amputation affecting those in both physical and mental dimensions. Moreover, it also leads to a decrease in quality of life and an increase in the burden of taking care of their family. Presently, the statistics of DM patients around the world are increasing every year and foot amputation was found in diabetics aged 35 years. Foot care among the elderly with DM in community plays an important role to prevent further foot ulcers and reduce the complications leading to foot amputation. This article aimed to provide knowledge and understanding about foot care among diabetic elders for nurses and those interested. The article described the causes and risk factors that cause foot ulcers in diabetic elders, risk assessment of occurring foot wounds, and the role of a nurse as direct care including being an educator or a consultant to help assess the risks, give advice, and help to teach foot care skills. This is to encourage the elderly with DM in the community to be able to practice on their own according to the recommendations effectively. Moreover, it is to promote and prevent the occurrence of foot ulcers as well as to assist the elderly with DM in community to take care of their feet by themselves, to prevent further occurrence of foot ulcers, and be able to live a better-quality of life.
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