Assessment of the geriatric patient

In its final report, the 1981 White House Conference on Aging recommended that "Comprehensive foot care be provided for the elderly in a manner equal to care provided for other parts of the human body, to permit patients to remain ambulatory:

Remove current Medicare exclusions which preclude comprehensive foot care." The ability to ambulate requires appropriate foot health as a catalyst. Keeping patients walking is a goal that needs to be met if older persons are to maintain a high degree of quality in their lives. Given the high prevalence of foot problems in elderly persons, especially in those patients with chronic diseases and mental health problems, foot care needs are essential. Foot health, care, and foot health promotion should be part of comprehensive health care for older Americans. The ability to remain active and ambulatory is one means of assuring dignity and self-esteem for the elderly.