MNT Foot Care for Elderly Patients

Question 1

Which age-related change most increases the risk of nail pathology in elderly patients?

Accepted Answer

Reduced peripheral circulation, thinner epidermis, and slower nail regeneration

Answer

Increased nail growth rate

Answer

Increased skin moisture retention

Answer

Enhanced immune response

Question 2

When assessing footwear in an elderly patient, the primary concern is:

Accepted Answer

Fit, adequate toe box depth and width, non-slip sole, and ease of fastening

Answer

Fashion and style

Answer

Color and material preference

Answer

Brand name and cost

Question 3

Which skin finding is most commonly observed on the feet of elderly patients during assessment?

Accepted Answer

Xerosis (dry skin), fissuring, and loss of subcutaneous fat padding

Answer

Smooth, moist skin with normal elasticity

Answer

Hyperpigmentation and increased sweat secretion

Answer

Abundant skin turgor and nail growth

Question 4

The term 'digital ischemia' in elderly foot care refers to:

Accepted Answer

Insufficient blood supply to the toes causing tissue damage, pain, or non-healing wounds

Answer

Fungal infection of the digits

Answer

Excessive moisture between the toes

Answer

Bone deformity of the phalangeal joints

Question 5

Orthopedic footwear for elderly patients with foot deformities (bunions, hammertoes) should provide:

Accepted Answer

A wide, deep toe box to accommodate deformities without pressure, with cushioned insoles

Answer

Maximum heel elevation

Answer

Minimal insole support to strengthen intrinsic muscles

Answer

Rigid sole to limit all foot movement

Question 6

Heel fissures in elderly patients are best managed with:

Accepted Answer

Mechanical debridement of hyperkeratosis followed by application of a high-concentration urea (20–40%) emollient

Answer

Vigorous pumice stone use on dry skin

Answer

Application of nail varnish to seal the fissure

Answer

Only warm water soaking without emollients