As a person gets older, their hair and nails change due to different needs, lifestyle changes, and even medications taken. It’s always important to focus on the basics – good nutrition and routine care – to ensure your nails and hair remain as healthy as possible.
Sometimes it’s unclear what the right type or level of care is for seniors. Learn how to keep healthy hair and nails for seniors.
Hair Care Routine
Aging, stress, and hormone changes all play a role in how you should care for hair as a person gets older. Here are some tips:
- Combat hair shedding, a common concern, with the use of moisturizing shampoos and conditioners. These help to refresh the scalp reducing the inflammation that commonly causes irritation.
- When you struggle to wash your hair enough (which should be a couple of times a week for most), consider using a shampoo cap. You don’t have to go under running water to use these, and they can refresh your hair in no time.
- Switch to a bristle brush or another type of brush that’s easier on your hair. You don’t want to pull and tug at your hair as that can cause damage.
When possible, look for shampoos formulated for fragile hair and scalp. Hair conditioners that use hydrolyzed keratin protein add another layer of protection.
Preventative Nail Care
If you have damage to your toenails, especially open sores, ripped nails, or large callus in the area, it’s best to seek out a podiatrist for initial care. This is especially true if you have diabetes.
Most general nail care is easier to complete when you have any infections and open wounds under control first. How can you keep your fingernails and toes healthy?
Functional Footwear
Start by wearing breathable socks and shoes. Seniors typically need to wear shoes more often because it helps to prevent falls. Yet, you also want to be sure you’re giving your toes some breathing time each day. Also, an foot soak product with Epsom salt can help keep the feet clean and relaxed.
Nail Trimming
Nail trimming is a big part of keeping your nails healthy. While a professional manicure and pedicure is a nice benefit, it’s still important to use proper nail trimming tools to keep nails at the right length.
Also, be sure to dislodge any gunk that’s under the nail. A manicure stick may help. Try trimming your nails after a warm shower or bath to make the process a bit easier.
If you have diabetes or care for someone with it, it is important to let a podiatrist or healthcare professional do all toenail trimming. Diabetes interferes with the way feet heal and even the smallest injury can lead to an infection that requires amputation. If you are not sure whether trimming toenails yourself is an option, ask the doctor for a recommendation.
Focus on General Nail and Hair Care
Putting a bit of extra time into your hair and nail care routine may help to improve the way your skin feels and looks. That may also help reduce infections and give you a healthy look.
Simply Medical offers a wide range of products to fit your needs. Browse our website to learn more about our nail and hair care products.