As life expectancy increases, so does the prevalence of age-related health conditions. Among these, diabetes stands out as a significant challenge, particularly for elderly populations. In Hong Kong, where one in three residents is projected to be over 65 by 2041 (source: Hong Kong Census and Statistics Department), managing diabetes and its complications has become a pressing concern. One of the most critical yet often overlooked complications is diabetic neuropathy and its dangerous consequence: foot ulcers.
Age and Diabetes: A Growing Concern
With age, the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes increases due to slower metabolism, reduced physical activity, and lifestyle factors. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), approximately 25% of people over 65 globally are living with diabetes. This condition affects blood sugar regulation and nerve function, making older individuals particularly vulnerable to complications.
Diabetic Neuropathy and Foot Ulcers
Diabetic neuropathy, a condition where elevated blood sugar damages nerves, is one of the most common complications of diabetes. It often begins with tingling or numbness in the feet and progresses to a loss of sensation. Without the ability to feel pain, minor injuries—such as cuts, blisters, or pressure wounds—can go unnoticed. These injuries can quickly escalate into foot ulcers, which are open sores that are prone to infection.
If untreated, foot ulcers can lead to severe complications, including infections and even amputations. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 15-25% of people with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer in their lifetime. Unfortunately, elderly individuals are at higher risk due to reduced circulation, slower healing, and weakened immune systems.
The Role of Exercise in Prevention
Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of diabetes management and overall health. Exercise improves blood circulation, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and strengthens muscles, reducing the risk of falls and injuries. For elderly individuals, even low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or tai chi can significantly improve foot health by increasing circulation to the extremities and preventing stiffness.
Source: Depositphotos
The Importance of Regular Foot Screening
Routine foot screening is essential for early detection of issues like neuropathy and ulcers. However, many elderly individuals may not prioritize this due to lack of awareness or accessibility to healthcare services. This is where innovative tools like SoleFit’s Foot Care Hub come into play.
Solefit Care’s Foot Care Hub
The SoleFit Foot Care Hub is a free, AI-powered screening tool designed to help elderly individuals monitor their foot health. By uploading simple foot images, users can receive detailed foot health reports, including potential risks for ulcers or circulation issues. This empowers users to take proactive steps, such as consulting specialists early or adopting better foot care routines.
Empowering seniors at Retired But Ready
As part of Solefit Care’s and Retired but Ready’s initiative, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of foot health for elderly communities in Hong Kong. By promoting regular exercise and encouraging the use of tools like the SoleFit Foot Care Hub, we can help retirees remain mobile, independent, and ready to embrace life’s opportunities.
Conclusion
Ageing is inevitable, but its complications don’t have to be. With the right approach—combining regular exercise, proactive foot screening, and awareness—we can significantly reduce the impact of diabetes-related foot problems on the elderly. Tools like SoleFit’s Foot Care Hub make it easier than ever for individuals to take control of their health, ensuring they remain active and independent for years to come.
Retirement is one more midway stop on life’s journey, not the finishing line. The choice has always been yours; to fade away or continue to contribute meaningfully to society and family. It could be the most fulfilling period yet.
Marching in lockstep with you on this journey is Retired But Ready, the world’s only platform exclusively for the seasoned, battle-tested members of the global human community.
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Sources:
Hong Kong Census and Statistics Department: Population Projections
International Diabetes Federation (IDF), Diabetes Atlas
World Health Organization (WHO), Diabetes Foot Complications
