Blog Layout

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

Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • July 22, 2023

Understanding Collapsed Arches in the Feet:

Impacts on Balance and Walking for the Elderly

At 7 Day Home Care, we understand that balance and mobility issues stemming from conditions like fallen arches (flat feet) can have far-reaching consequences for the elderly. These issues can lead to increased risk of falls, which are a leading cause of injury and hospitalization in older adults. Collapsed arches can cause pain and discomfort, leading to reduced physical activity and subsequent muscle weakness, further impairing balance and mobility. This decline in mobility can result in loss of independence, social isolation, and decreased quality of life. Additionally, the fear of falling can cause significant anxiety and reluctance to engage in daily activities, exacerbating both physical and mental health issues. Addressing these challenges with comprehensive care and support is crucial to help the elderly maintain their health, safety, and well-being.

Collapsed arches in your feet can cause serious balance and mobility issues.

Are You Having Balance and Mobility Issues

Because of Fallen Arches in Your Feet?

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. 7 Day Home Care is licensed by the New York State Department of Health to provide home care services in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York. 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.

Some 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.
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.

The Impact of Fallen Arches on Balance, Mobility 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:

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.

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 of Fallen Arches in Your Feet

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

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 medical care and then 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, call 516-408-0034 and take the first step towards a safer and more comfortable life.

Brian Callahan

7 Day Home Care

< Older Post

Newer Post >

insulin resistance, Alzheimer's, and type 3 diabetes

Type 3 Diabetes: A Link Between Insulin Resistance and Alzheimer's

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • February 21, 2025

Type 3 Diabetes: A Link Between Insulin Resistance and Alzheimer's 7 Day Home Care specializes in providing compassionate and professional Alzheimer’s and dementia home health aide care in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island, New York. Our highly trained caregivers offer personalized support, ensuring safety, comfort, and dignity for individuals living with cognitive decline. As a top home care agency, we believe that sharing valuable information through articles like this helps families make informed decisions about their loved ones' care. By educating the public on critical health topics, such as the connection between insulin resistance and Alzheimer’s disease, we empower families with knowledge while reinforcing our commitment to expert, high-quality home care services. 7 Day Home Care provides leading in-home care services in Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York. To learn more about our best home care agency services, please call 516-408-0034.

learn how to identify Walking pneumonia symptoms

15 Symptoms of Walking Pneumonia: What You Need to Know

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • February 18, 2025

15 Symptoms of Walking Pneumonia: What You Need to Know Walking pneumonia can be particularly dangerous for elderly individuals, as their immune systems are often weaker, making them more susceptible to complications. If left untreated, what may seem like mild symptoms can escalate into severe respiratory distress, dehydration, or secondary infections, such as bacterial pneumonia. Addressing walking pneumonia promptly in seniors is crucial to preventing hospitalizations and ensuring a full recovery. At 7 Day Home Care, we emphasize early detection and proper care to help seniors manage their symptoms effectively while maintaining their overall health and well-being. 7 Day Home Care provides leading in-home care services in Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York. To learn more about our top home care services, please call 516-408-0034.

7 day home care is the top home care agency for hospital stay prevention and readmissions

How Home Care Prevents Hospital Stays and Reduces Readmissions

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • February 11, 2025

How Home Care Prevents Hospital Stays and Reduces Readmissions 7 Day Home Care is a leading home care agency dedicated to preventing hospital stays and reducing the risk of readmissions by providing exceptional, personalized care for seniors and individuals recovering at home. As a licensed home care provider in New York, we specialize in private pay home care, ensuring that our clients receive top-tier, one-on-one support tailored to their unique medical and personal needs. Our highly trained home health aides and registered nurses focus on medication management, fall prevention, chronic disease monitoring, infection control, and post-hospital recovery care—all of which play a critical role in minimizing avoidable hospitalizations. With a proactive approach to health management, we help seniors adhere to prescribed treatments, attend follow-up appointments, and maintain a safe living environment, significantly lowering the risk of complications that could lead to emergency room visits or extended hospital stays. By choosing 7 Day Home Care, families can have peace of mind knowing that their loved ones are receiving comprehensive, around-the-clock support from experienced caregivers, ultimately enhancing their quality of life, safety, and independence at home while preventing unnecessary hospital readmissions. 7 Day Home Care provides leading in-home care services in Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York. To learn more about our top home care services, please call 516-408-0034.

certified home health aide providing specialized in-home diabetes care

Home Health Aides for Seniors with Diabetes: Expert In-Home Care

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • February 7, 2025

Certified Home Health Aides for Seniors with Diabetes: Expert In-Home Care Having experienced and trained certified home health aides who are supervised by registered nurses is critical for ensuring safe and effective in-home diabetes care, especially for seniors who struggle to manage their condition independently. Diabetes requires precise medication management, blood sugar monitoring, and dietary control, and without proper oversight, complications such as hypoglycemia, infections, and diabetic foot ulcers can quickly escalate. Certified home health aides are trained to recognize early warning signs of blood sugar fluctuations, assist with insulin administration, and provide nutritional support, while registered nurse supervision ensures that care plans are properly executed and adjusted based on the patient’s health status. This professional oversight not only enhances patient safety and well-being but also provides peace of mind to families, knowing their loved ones are receiving specialized, high-quality diabetes care at home. 7 Day Home Care provides in-home diabetes care services in Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York. To learn more about our specialized in-home diabetes care services near you, please call 516-408-0034.

top care tips for your love one with Alzheimer's or dementia

Alzheimer’s vs. Dementia: Key Differences, Symptoms & Care Tips

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • February 4, 2025

Alzheimer's vs. Dementia: Key Differences, Symptoms & Care Tips 7 Day Home Care provides exceptional Alzheimer’s and dementia care with a team of highly trained and experienced home health aides who specialize in supporting individuals with cognitive impairments. Our caregivers are not only certified but also receive ongoing training to ensure they can handle the unique challenges of memory care with patience, compassion, and expertise. Every home health aide works under the direct supervision of our registered nursing staff , ensuring that each client receives personalized, high-quality care tailored to their evolving needs. Whether assisting with daily activities, managing behavioral changes, or creating a safe and structured environment, 7 Day Home Care is committed to enhancing the quality of life for those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia . If you are searching for Alzheimer's or dementia in home care near you, please contact 7 Day Home Care today at 516-408-0034 to learn more.

elderly parent resisting home care services

What to Do When Elderly Parents Refuse Home Care: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • January 31, 2025

What to Do When Elderly Parents Refuse Home Care: A Step-by-Step Guide Many elderly parents resist and outright refuse in-home care, often due to a deep-seated fear of losing independence, privacy concerns, or a lack of awareness about their own declining abilities. At 7 Day Home Care , we understand that this resistance can be frustrating and emotionally draining for families who only want the best for their loved ones. Seniors may perceive accepting help as an admission of weakness or believe they can manage on their own, even when daily tasks become overwhelming or unsafe. Some fear that bringing in a caregiver signals the first step toward losing control over their lives or being forced into a nursing home. Others worry about cost, unfamiliarity with caregivers, or cultural stigma surrounding receiving assistance. Overcoming this challenge requires patience, open communication, and a strategic approach that emphasizes safety, dignity, and independence rather than limitations. Families can ease this transition by involving their loved ones in the decision-making process, addressing their specific concerns, and starting with small, trial-based care visits. At 7 Day Home Care , we specialize in working with reluctant seniors, providing compassionate, customized support to help them feel comfortable and in control while ensuring they receive the care they need to age safely in their own homes. 7 Day Home Care provides in-home care services in Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York. To learn more about our home care services, please call 516-408-0034.

7 Day Home Care: How to Choose the Best Home Care Services Near You

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • January 27, 2025

7 Day Home Care: How to Choose the Best Home Care Services Near You Engaging a super competent, professional, and honest home care agency can profoundly impact a loved one’s long-term well-being, independence, and quality of life. A highly skilled and compassionate care team ensures that individuals receive personalized attention, proper medical support, and emotional companionship , reducing risks like falls, medication errors, and isolation-related decline. When care is delivered with expertise and integrity , families gain peace of mind , knowing their loved ones are in capable and trustworthy hands. Over time, this consistent, high-quality care not only enhances physical health and cognitive function but also fosters a sense of dignity, comfort, and emotional stability , leading to better overall health outcomes and a significantly improved quality of life. 7 Day Home Care is a licensed home care agency providing services in Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York.

Sundowning: Understanding, Managing, Supporting Loved Ones

Sundowning: Understanding, Managing, and Supporting Loved Ones

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • January 24, 2025

Sundowning: Understanding, Managing, and Supporting Loved Ones Sundowning is a common symptom in individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia, characterized by increased confusion, agitation, and restlessness in the late afternoon and evening. At 7 Day Home Care, we understand how challenging this can be for both caregivers and loved ones. Our compassionate caregivers are trained to create structured routines, maintain a calming environment, and use reassuring techniques to help manage sundowning symptoms effectively. By minimizing triggers such as overstimulation, ensuring proper lighting, and encouraging daytime activity to promote better sleep, we provide the support needed to enhance comfort and reduce distress. If your loved one is experiencing sundowning, 7 Day Home Care is here to offer expert guidance and personalized care to help navigate this difficult aspect of dementia. If you or a loved one need specialized Alzheimer's or dementia home care, contact 7 Day Home Care today at 516-408-0034 for personalized support and expert in-home caregiving. 7 Day Home Care is a licensed home care agency providing services in Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York.

10 Early Signs of Dementia: Symptoms, Warning Signs & Next Steps

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • January 20, 2025

10 Early Signs of Dementia: Symptoms, Warning Signs & Next Steps Recognizing the early signs of dementia is crucial for ensuring timely care and support. Dementia affects millions of families worldwide, and early detection can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and improving quality of life. While some memory lapses are a normal part of aging, persistent confusion, difficulty completing familiar tasks, and changes in judgment could signal something more serious. If a loved one is showing signs of cognitive decline, working with a top home care agency specializing in dementia care , like 7 Day Home Care , can provide the expert assistance needed to keep them safe, engaged, and comfortable at home. From personalized memory care programs to 24/7 support , professional caregivers can help individuals maintain their independence while receiving compassionate, specialized care in a familiar environment. If you or your loved one are seeking in-home care services in the New York Metropolitan Area - including Nassau County, Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , and Suffolk County rest assure that our highly trained and experienced team of Home Health Aides in dementia care is dedicated to providing an exceptional personalized care experience that enhances quality of life and well-being. Please call for a free consultation today at 516-408-0034.