You've trimmed your nails a thousand times, but elderly nail care can feel like a whole new situation. As we age, our fingernails and toenails change. That's why manicures and pedicures are done differently for seniors. Let's look at some common nail problems for seniors, everyday nail care tips and the nitty-gritty on how you can safely manage senior nails.
Common Nail Problems for the Elderly
Healthy young nails are shiny and smooth, with a pink nail bed and undamaged cuticles. But the International Journal of Women's Dermatology reports that the normal aging process causes nails to become more pale, dull and thick. Nails in seniors tend to grow more slowly, are brittle, can break easily and are hard to cut.
Some of the most common issues in elderly nail care are:
- Fungal Infections: These are the most common nail infections, especially for those who are elderly, smoke or have medical conditions like diabetes or circulation problems.
- Brittle Nails and Dry Cuticles: This is often caused by how slow elderly nails grow. The nail spends more time exposed to air, water, sanitizers and nail cosmetics that cause damage.
- Ingrown Toenails: This is often caused by poor nail-cutting habits or poor fitting shoes.
Nail Care Tips for the Elderly
The normal nail changes that come with aging mean you'll need to adapt your nail care routine in the following ways:
- Trim Nails Every 6–8 Weeks: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that you keep your nails short, clean and dry. Nails should be cut straight across with a slight round at the edges. Short nails are less likely to break or catch on objects.
- Get Adequate Nutrition: Nutrition is one of the essential building blocks for strong, healthy nails. The Cleveland Clinic recommends adequate protein, iron and vitamin B to keep nails at their best. Your nutritional needs should be met by eating whole foods, meats, fruits and vegetables. It's important to talk to your doctor if you or your loved one has concerns about proper nutrition.
- Moisturize: Give your hands and feet a little extra love with a nice moisturizer or hand cream before bed. And don't forget your nails and cuticles. You can help restore moisture lost through aging and frequent washing. Rub the lotion into your fingernails and cuticles. The John Hopkins Center recommends using a lotion on your feet, too, if you have dry skin. But skip the area between your toes, as lotion there can increase your risk of fungal infections.
- Protect Your Nails: Treat your nails carefully. Don't bite or chew your fingernails or use them as a tool to pry open soda pop tops. Keep your toenails safe with shoes that fit properly and give your toes room to move. Wearing slip-on shoes at the pool can reduce the risk of fungal infections around your toenails.
- Get Help for Problems: Your nails can provide helpful information about your overall health. If your nails change, swell, separate from the skin, are bleeding or are causing you pain, see your health care provider. This is particularly important if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
How to Give an Elderly Person a Manicure or Pedicure
So now you may be wondering where to start with a senior manicure or pedicure. It's not that different from cutting your own nails—just keep a few precautions in mind. Here's the process:
- Gather Your Equipment: Good, sharp nail cutters will make handling thick nails easier. The AAD recommends a separate nail clipper for fingernails and a toenail clipper for toenails. You might want to consider a nail nipper for particularly thick toenails. Wash your hands before you start and when you're done. Disinfect your tools by soaking them in 70%–90% isopropyl alcohol, then rinse in hot water and allow to air-dry.
- Soak the Nails: Elderly nails are easiest to cut after they have been soaked. Try cutting nails right after a bath or shower. If this isn't possible, soak hands or feet in warm water for 5–10 minutes before starting your pedicure.
- Cut Straight Across But a Little Above the Nail Bed: Trim nails straight across the nail, leaving a little nail above the nail bed. This reduces the chance of ingrown nails or nipping the skin. Start at one side of the nail and make small, straight cuts across the nail.
- File Them Smooth: Use an emery board or nail file to smooth out any uneven or rough edges. File the nail with small, short strokes, always in the same direction to prevent splintering the nail. Make sure there are no sharp edges that could cause cuts in the skin.
- Moisturize and Relax: Once all the nails are soaked, cut and filed, apply a soothing hand cream or lotion. Clean up your equipment and sit back with a nice cup of tea together. Giving your loved one a mani-pedi deserves a reward.
Make Nail Care a Priority
Regular nail care not only helps us feel better about our appearance, but it also is an important part of staying healthy. Keeping an eye out for common nail problems and taking a few extra steps to keep your loved one's nails in good shape can prevent more serious problems. If you're taking care of a senior and could use some in-home help, speak with a BrightStar Care® representative.
BrightStar Care® can assist with personal care, grooming and bathing in your home. BrightStar Care® caregivers are compassionate and qualified home care providers. Whether you're looking for in-home care services or assisted living for your loved one or a reliable medical staffing partner for your organization, our experienced local care team members are ready to help. Find a location near you, contact us online or call (866) 618-7827 to learn more about how BrightStar Care® offers A Higher Standard®.