The medical pedicure at home in Israel can concern everyone, primarily seniors. As we age, taking care of our feet becomes a necessity. Elderly individuals are often more vulnerable to injuries and infections, and it can sometimes be difficult for them to manage their foot hygiene on their own. These cares can be neglected, whether due to lack of flexibility or health issues. Fortunately, it is possible to call upon a qualified health professional, such as a medical pedicurist, to provide this health well-being at home or in a clinic. Here is a complete guide to better understand medical pedicure at home for the elderly: why, how, and how much does it cost?
Why have home pedicure care when you are a senior?
The health of the feet is crucial for maintaining mobility, walking comfort, and quality of life. If care is regular, it can help prevent fungal infections, plantar warts, ingrown nails, calluses, or corns, sometimes referred to as “ chicken eye.”
They also help with complications related to certain chronic conditions such as diabetes, osteoarthritis, rheumatism, or lower back pain, but not only. The medical pedicure at home can also assist in rehabilitation after surgery or a fall to regain balance and mobility!
Who can perform a pedicure at home for an elderly person?
Two main solutions are possible for performing a medical pedicure on an elderly person.
Calling on a relative for medical pedicure
This can be a family member or a friend. They will take care of cutting the nails and ensuring basic podiatric care. This requires some precautions. It is important that the elderly person gives their consent with complete trust. It is also necessary to use appropriate equipment, such as a manicure-pedicure kit easily available at pharmacies, medical supply stores, or specialized websites.
It is advisable to be attentive to nail regrowth every two to three weeks. On the day of the pedicure, the senior can soak their feet in warm water to soften the nails, dry them well, and disinfect the tools. The nails should be cut straight with nail clippers, leaving a small margin of 2 to 3 mm.
Good to know: in the case of thickened or very hard nails (common among seniors), a professional is preferable at home, as a simple standard nail clipper may be insufficient.
To make this moment enjoyable, it is advisable to be gentle, explain each action, and why not, conclude the care with a little relaxing massage of the toes and the sole of the foot.
Requesting a licensed professional
Alternatively, it is also possible to call upon a qualified professional. A medical pedicurist can come to your home or see you in their office. During the first consultation, they perform a complete diagnosis to identify the patient’s needs and propose a care plan. They ensure that the person fully understands the planned intervention and request their consent, which is a very important step. Everything is based on the patient’s agreement.
What is the price of a medical pedicure at home for seniors in Israel?
In Israel, the cost of a home medical pedicure session generally varies between 150 and 550 shekels, depending on the city (Tel Aviv, Ashdod, Ashkelon, etc.) and the chosen professional. This service is usually not covered by “Koupat Holim” (public health insurance), except in cases of specific medical conditions, such as diabetes or serious circulatory problems.
However, some private or supplementary health insurances (such as “Mashlim” or “Bituach Briout Prati”) may partially reimburse these costs upon presentation of a medical prescription. Therefore, it is advisable for seniors to inquire with their insurance to know precisely their rights and reimbursement possibilities.
Good practices for taking care of feet daily
Beyond the care provided during a home medical pedicure, it is essential to check the condition of the feet every day. It is recommended to regularly check the appearance of the nails, the skin between the toes and on the heel, as well as the appearance of any lesions.
Attentive monitoring allows for quick reactions in case of suspicious signs, even if it’s just a callus or an ingrown nail. It is also important to wash your feet every day with warm water and mild soap and then dry them well, especially between the toes to prevent fungal infections.
For foot care, prioritize exfoliation and a moisturizing cream rather than a soak, applying it with a massage to nourish the skin and prevent cracks. Finally, engaging in regular physical activity helps maintain the flexibility and mobility of the feet, especially in the plantar area.
Medical pedicure for seniors, it’s a treat!
What to remember is that little feet should not be neglected, regardless of age. To prevent certain diseases and maintain one’s body, it also creates contact with the senior who may be losing autonomy if you perform the care yourself. Calling on a professional is also possible to obtain a complete diagnosis and a list of care to be provided. This reassures health and relaxes with foot care!
Lou Linh Guy
