Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon — Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI. Last updated April 2026.

Your Feet at 60 and Beyond

Aging brings predictable changes to foot structure, tissue quality, and function that affect a significant percentage of older adults. Studies show that over 75% of adults over 65 have at least one significant foot problem. Because foot health is directly linked to balance, mobility, and independence, addressing foot conditions proactively is an important component of healthy aging. The podiatrists at Balance Foot & Ankle in Howell and Bloomfield Township, Michigan partner with older adult patients to maintain foot health and mobility through their later years.

What Changes in the Aging Foot

Several predictable structural changes occur with aging. The fat pads on the heel and ball of the foot atrophy — this natural cushioning progressively thins, increasing pain with weight-bearing on hard surfaces. Ligaments and tendons lose elasticity and strength, reducing arch support and ankle stability. Skin becomes thinner, drier, and more fragile, prone to cracking and breakdown. Toenails thicken and become more brittle, making proper trimming difficult. Circulation to the feet decreases. Sensory nerves may reduce sensitivity, impairing proprioception and increasing fall risk. Bone density decreases, raising fracture risk from falls.

Most Common Foot Conditions in Older Adults

Metatarsalgia from fat pad atrophy causes burning ball-of-foot pain on hard surfaces — cushioning insoles and rocker-bottom footwear provide significant relief. Hallux valgus (bunion) deformities progress with age and may become symptomatic after being well-tolerated for decades. Hammertoes and claw toes develop as intrinsic foot muscles weaken. Plantar fasciitis, heel pad syndrome, and Achilles tendinopathy become more common. Peripheral neuropathy — from diabetes, nutritional deficiencies, or idiopathic causes — increases fall risk by reducing foot sensation. Onychomycosis (fungal nail infection) prevalence increases dramatically with age, affecting up to 50% of adults over 70.

Footwear Becomes More Important With Age

Poor footwear is a major contributor to foot problems and falls in older adults. The ideal shoe for an older adult provides firm heel support (preventing calcaneal eversion that contributes to falls), a wide, roomy toe box accommodating deformities, substantial midsole cushioning replacing lost fat pad protection, a low heel (less than half inch) for stability, and secure fastening (lace-ups or Velcro rather than slip-ons that allow the foot to slide). Avoid shoes with worn, compressed soles — they provide little cushioning or stability despite appearing intact externally.

Nail and Skin Care

Proper toenail care becomes more challenging with age due to thickened nails, reduced flexibility, and visual impairment. Attempting to cut severely thickened or curved nails without proper tools and technique risks lacerations and subsequent infection. Professional nail care by a podiatrist — particularly for diabetic patients — ensures safe management and monitors for any developing skin or nail pathology. Moisturizing the feet daily (avoiding between the toes) prevents dryness and cracking that can lead to bacterial entry points.

Proactive Prevention

The most effective approach to foot health after 60 is prevention rather than treatment after problems develop. Annual podiatric check-ups allow early identification of developing deformities, vascular changes, neurological changes, and skin conditions before they become serious. For diabetic older adults, every 3-month podiatric visits are standard of care. Custom orthotics compensate for fat pad loss, fallen arches, and biomechanical changes. Fall prevention programs incorporating balance training, appropriate footwear, and home modification are among the most effective interventions to maintain independence in older adults.

Foot or Ankle Pain? We Can Help.

Balance Foot & Ankle — Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI

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Over 60? Proactive Foot Care Keeps You Independent

Maintaining healthy feet after 60 is essential for balance, mobility, and independent living. Dr. Tom Biernacki provides comprehensive senior foot care including diabetic monitoring, nail care, fall prevention, and treatment for age-related conditions.

Learn About Senior Foot Care | Book Your Appointment | Call (810) 206-1402

Clinical References

1. Menz HB, et al. Foot problems as a risk factor for falls in community-dwelling older people. Gerontology. 2006;52(6):386-394.
2. Barr EL, et al. Foot and leg problems are important determinants of functional status in community dwelling older people. Disability and Rehabilitation. 2005;27(16):917-923.
3. Jessup RL. Foot pathology and inappropriate footwear as risk factors for falls in a subacute aged-care hospital. Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association. 2007;97(3):213-217.

Your Board-Certified Podiatrists

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Board-Certified · FACFAS

Dr. Carl Jay, DPM

Board-Certified Podiatrist

Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM

Podiatrist

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a double board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has reached over one million views.