The importance of foot care
Good foot health is important to your client’s quality of life. Healthy feet help people move more easily, reduce the chance of falls, and reduce foot pain. For older people, this can greatly improve daily life.
If feet are not cared for properly, it can cause serious health problems – like sores, infections, or even losing a toe or foot. This is especially important for people who have long-term illnesses like diabetes.
Podiatry and the strengthened aged care standards
Foot care (podiatry) is part of the strengthened aged care standards. It helps people stay mobile, safe, and comfortable. It supports:
- Standard 1 – the individual: by helping clients stay independent and improve their quality of life.
- Standard 3 – the care and services: by making sure everyday support (like foot hygiene and monitoring) is safe and organised. It helps the care match the client’s unique goals and health status.
- Standard 5 – clinical care: by making sure foot care is given by qualified health professionals. It keeps clinical care safe, effective, and aligned with the client’s health needs and goals.
For support workers and allied health staff
Understanding podiatrists in aged care
Podiatrists are allied health professionals. They play an important role in aged care. They can support older people with foot, ankle, or lower limb problems.
When to refer to a podiatrist
Foot problems can affect a person’s independence and quality of life. If your client shows signs or risks that indicate a need for podiatry, refer them.
Indicators for podiatry referral include:
- Foot pain or discomfort from shoes
- Difficulty walking or changes in gait or balance
- Wounds, ulcers, or foot injuries
- Thickened or ingrown toenails
- Persistent fungal infections, skin changes, or odour
- Discoloured skin or nails
- Swelling in the feet or ankles
- Signs of diabetes-related complications, such as numbness, tingling, or slow-healing sores
How podiatry supports reablement
Foot problems are a common falls risk. Recent research found that more than 8 in 10 older adults at a Falls and Balance Clinic needed podiatry care. Weak feet and unsuitable shoes were linked to poorer balance and a higher risk of falls.
Proper foot care helps people stay mobile and lowers their risk of falling. This supports independence and makes it easier to take part in reablement activities. Your client may feel more motivated to move more each day when foot pain and the fear of falling aren't holding them back.
Case example of how podiatry can support reablement:
- Josie noticed her client, Alex, was walking less and complaining that his shoes didn’t feel right.
- Josie referred Alex to a podiatrist.
- The podiatrist treated Alex for painful corns and gave some footwear adjustments.
- Soon, Alex was able to walk more comfortably and do more things around the house.
For managers and providers
Qualifications to look for in a podiatrist
When choosing a podiatrist, make sure they are qualified and registered. They need a Bachelor of Podiatry (or a similar degree) from an approved university. They must also be registered with the Podiatry Board of Australia.
Check for:
- Current registration with the Podiatry Board of Australia
- Ongoing professional training
- Proof of professional insurance that covers the service they’ll be providing
Learn more about allied health qualification and registration requirements.
This helps to ensure:
- Clients get safe and effective care
- Compliance with aged care rules
- The podiatrist is accountable for the care they give clients
You can search for a podiatrist by suburb or postcode via Healthdirect.
Takeaway
Here’s a summary of the key points made in this article:
- Podiatrists play a key role in mobility and fall prevention for older adults.
- Support workers can identify signs for referral.
- Managers and providers must ensure staff are qualified and registered.
- Keep Able provides resources to help staff and managers get the right care for clients. This includes foot care.