7 Day Home Care - LOGO


Call the Most Responsive Team in Home Care Today

This is a placeholder for the Yext Knolwedge Tags. This message will not appear on the live site, but only within the editor. The Yext Knowledge Tags are successfully installed and will be added to the website.
7dayhomecare

Providing the Same Level

 of Care We Expect for

 Our Own Family

This is a placeholder for the Yext Knolwedge Tags. This message will not appear on the live site, but only within the editor. The Yext Knowledge Tags are successfully installed and will be added to the website.

Blog Layout

Understanding Collapsed Arches in the Feet: Impacts on Balance and Walking for the Elderly

Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • Jul 22, 2023

Collapsed arches, also known as flat feet or fallen arches, is a common foot condition characterized by the loss of the natural arch in the foot. This health issue can affect people of all ages, but it becomes increasingly prevalent among the elderly. 7 Day Home Care recognizes the significance of addressing the complications associated with collapsed arches in older adults, particularly regarding balance and mobility. In this article, we will explore the risks and challenges posed by this condition.

The Prevalence of Collapsed Arches in the Elderly

Collapsed arches are more likely to occur with age due to the natural wear and tear of the foot's supporting structures. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, approximately 20-30% of adults have flat feet, and the incidence increases with age.

Key Statistics:

  • A study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research revealed that the prevalence of flat feet increases from 13.3% in individuals aged 40-59 to 23.1% in those aged 60-79. (Source: Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, https://jfootankleres.biomedcentral.com/)
  • Another study published in the Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics found that flat feet are associated with a higher risk of falls in older adults. (Source: Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics, https://www.sciencedirect.com/)

The Impact on Balance and Walking

Collapsed arches can lead to a series of complications that significantly affect balance and walking ability in the elderly. The arches in the feet play a crucial role in distributing body weight evenly, absorbing shock, and providing stability during movement. When the arch collapses, it alters the biomechanics of the foot, causing various issues:

  1. Reduced Stability:
  • Flat feet can lead to an unstable base, making it challenging for seniors to maintain their balance, especially on uneven surfaces.

    2.   Increased Risk of Falls:

  • According to a study by the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, flat feet have been linked to an increased risk of falls in older adults, potentially resulting in fractures and other injuries. (Source: Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/)

    3.   Changes in Walking Gait:

  • Collapsed arches may alter the natural gait pattern, leading to difficulties in walking and increased fatigue during physical activities.

    4.   Foot and Ankle Pain:

  • Flat feet can cause strain on the soft tissues and joints of the foot and ankle, resulting in pain and discomfort.

Preventing and Managing Complications

While flat feet are a natural consequence of aging for some individuals, proactive measures can help prevent or alleviate complications associated with collapsed arches:

  1. Proper Footwear:
  • Wearing supportive shoes with good arch support can help distribute weight more evenly and reduce discomfort.

    2.   Orthotic Devices:

  • Custom-made orthotic inserts can provide additional support and help correct the alignment of the foot.

    3.   Regular Exercise:

  • Engaging in low-impact exercises, such as swimming and cycling, can help maintain joint flexibility and strengthen foot muscles.

    4.   Balance and Strength Training:

  • Participating in specific exercises that target balance and strength can improve stability and reduce the risk of falls.

Collapsed arches can pose significant challenges to the balance and walking abilities of elderly individuals. Recognizing the risks associated with this condition is crucial for implementing appropriate preventive measures and effective management strategies. 7 Day Home Care, a leading provider of in-home care services in New York City, Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau County, and Suffolk County, understands the impact of foot health on overall well-being. If you or a loved one is experiencing difficulties related to collapsed arches, consider seeking professional care and support from 7 Day Home Care. Our compassionate caregivers are trained to assist seniors with various health conditions, including foot-related issues, and can provide personalized care to enhance mobility, safety, and overall quality of life. To learn more about our services, visit www.7dayhomecare.com and take the first step towards a safer and more comfortable life.

Brian Callahan

7 Day Home Care

Home Health Aide duties
By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care 13 May, 2024
What are the Duties of a Home Health Aide? It's paramount for clients, patients, and their families to grasp the full scope of a home health aides' duties to establish clear expectations and foster a strong, trusting relationship. Understanding the responsibilities of a home health aide enables clients and their families to communicate their needs effectively, ensuring that care is tailored to meet individual preferences and requirements. Moreover, a transparent understanding of the aide's duties promotes collaboration and cooperation between all parties involved, facilitating a positive caregiving experience for everyone. By recognizing the pivotal role that home health aides play in supporting their loved ones, clients and families can cultivate a sense of appreciation and respect, further enhancing the quality of care provided. Clear communication and mutual understanding lay the foundation for a harmonious and effective partnership between home health aides and those they serve, ultimately promoting better outcomes and overall satisfaction with the caregiving experience.
By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care 10 May, 2024
20 Benefits of Staying Home and Aging in Place
7 Day Home Care can help with a Spouse that Has Dementia at Home
By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care 06 May, 2024
My Spouse Has Dementia: Is a Home Health Care Agency an Option? Johns Hopkins Medicine explains "of the 5.8 million people in the United States living with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia , the majority live in their own homes over the course of their illness—even in those in more advanced stages and at end-of life. And home care isn’t always easier — meeting the complex and ever-changing care needs for people with dementia can be challenging and caregiving often falls on the shoulders of family members and friends. And while caregiving can be rewarding, caregivers can burn out and experience greater health problems themselves, physical and emotional burden, as well as financial strains from lost time at work or from paying out of pocket for care or services, experts warn."
7 Day Home Care is the best home care agency near you in preventing infection
By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care 02 May, 2024
Reduce the Risk of Infection through a Home Care Agency Near You The risk of infection is significantly heightened in hospitals, rehabs, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, and nursing homes compared to receiving care at home with a dedicated home health aide. In institutional settings, the close proximity of patients with varying health conditions, coupled with the constant influx of visitors and healthcare personnel, creates environments ripe for the spread of infectious agents. Moreover, the necessity for communal spaces and shared amenities in these facilities further increases the likelihood of transmission. In contrast, the controlled environment of one's home, coupled with personalized care provided by a home health aide, minimizes exposure to pathogens. By focusing on individualized attention and implementing stringent infection control measures, including proper sanitation and hygiene practices, home-based care significantly reduces the risk of acquiring infections commonly associated with institutional settings.
Managing Anxiety: Relaxation Techniques for Seniors in Home Care
By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care 29 Apr, 2024
Managing Anxiety: Relaxation Techniques for Senior In-Home Care When an elderly loved one grapples with anxiety, finding reliable support becomes paramount for their well-being. At our leading home care agency, located conveniently near you, we understand the importance of providing compassionate and highly trained home health aides to assist with in-home care. Whether it's offering a listening ear, implementing relaxation techniques, or providing practical support with daily activities, our experienced caregivers are dedicated to easing the burden of anxiety and fostering a sense of calm and security for your loved one. With personalized care plans tailored to individual needs and a commitment to excellence in dementia care, we strive to be a trusted partner in enhancing the quality of life for seniors in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island, New York.
sensory garden for elderly with dementia
By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care 26 Apr, 2024
Enhancing Dementia Care: Creating a Sensory Garden for Seniors In navigating the complex landscape of dementia care, the importance of engaging a home care agency near you that specializes in this field cannot be overstated. Entrusting the well-being of a loved one with dementia to highly trained and experienced home health aides is essential for ensuring the highest quality of care and support. Dementia presents unique challenges that require a nuanced understanding, specialized skills, and a compassionate approach, all of which are hallmark qualities of caregivers who have received extensive training in dementia care. By partnering with a home care agency that prioritizes dementia care expertise, families can rest assured that their loved one will receive personalized, attentive care tailored to their individual needs, fostering comfort, dignity, and an enhanced quality of life.
What stage of dementia is sundowning?
By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care 23 Apr, 2024
What Stage of Dementia is Sundowning? According to Mayo Clinic "the term "sundowning" refers to a state of confusion that occurs in the late afternoon and lasts into the night. Sundowning can cause various behaviors, such as confusion, anxiety, aggression or ignoring directions. Sundowning also can lead to pacing or wandering. Sundowning isn't a disease. It's a group of symptoms that occurs at a specific time of the day. These symptoms may affect people with Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. The exact cause of sundowning is not known."
Differences Between Nursing Home, Assisted Living, and Skilled Nursing Facilities
By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care 19 Apr, 2024
Differences Between Nursing Home, Assisted Living, and Skilled Nursing Facilities Understanding the distinctions between nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and skilled nursing facilities is crucial for making informed decisions about long-term care options. While nursing homes offer round-the-clock medical care and assistance with daily activities for individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities, assisted living facilities provide a less intensive level of care, promoting independence while offering support services. On the other hand, skilled nursing facilities focus on rehabilitative therapies and medical treatments for those recovering from acute medical conditions. Despite these differences, individuals residing in any of these facilities may benefit from additional care and support provided by a reputable home care agency like ours. Whether it's offering companionship, assistance with personal care tasks, or specialized medical care, our agency can complement the existing services in these facilities, optimizing the overall well-being and quality of life for residents. With our tailored approach and compassionate caregivers, we strive to ensure that individuals receive the personalized attention they deserve, enhancing their comfort and dignity in any care setting.
By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care 18 Apr, 2024
Pneumonia: Cause, Symptoms, Risks, and Home Health Care Services According to Cleveland Clinic "pneumonia is inflammation and fluid in your lungs caused by a bacterial, viral or fungal infection. It makes it difficult to breathe and can cause a fever and cough with yellow, green or bloody mucus. The flu, COVID-19 and pneumococcal disease are common causes of pneumonia. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of pneumonia."  Johns Hopkins adds "treatment depends on the type of pneumonia you have. Most of the time, pneumonia is treated at home, but severe cases may be treated in the hospital. Antibiotics are used for bacterial pneumonia. Antibiotics may also speed recovery from mycoplasma pneumonia and some special cases. Most viral pneumonias don’t have specific treatment. They usually get better on their own. Other treatment may include eating well, increasing fluid intake, getting rest, oxygen therapy, pain medicine, fever control, and maybe cough-relief medicine if cough is severe."
7 Day Home Care is the best home care agency near you for at home congestive heart failure care
By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care 15 Apr, 2024
Optimizing Well-Being with Home Care for Congestive Heart Failure According to Cleveland Clinic "congestive heart failure is a long-term condition that happens when your heart can’t pump blood well enough to give your body a normal supply. Blood and fluids collect in your lungs and legs over time. Medications and other treatments help manage symptoms like swelling. Congestive heart failure is life-limiting for many." While congestive heart failure may pose challenges, the right home care services can be a beacon of hope, fostering independence and enhancing overall well-being. Discover how personalized care can empower individuals to navigate life's journey with renewed confidence and vitality.
More Posts
Share by: