Checking your loved one’s feet and keeping them clean and soft can help prevent cracks and infection in the skin. This is especially important for people who have diabetes. Keeping toenails trimmed—and polished if that’s what the person likes—also helps the person feel well-groomed.
If the person you care for has diabetes or has foot problems, such as bad bunions and corns, consider taking them to see a podiatrist. This is a doctor who specializes in the care of the feet. Sometimes a podiatrist will come to the home if the person can’t go out for visits.
Try to take the person for salon pedicures if that is what they want. It’s a chance to get out and see people and continue a favorite activity.
You can do basic nail care at home. Usually, all you need to do is keep the nails clean and at a safe length.