Our feet carry us through life, yet they’re often overlooked until problems arise. In this episode, host Michelle sits down with senior podiatrist Krissy McKenzie from Flexi Care to explore why foot health is central to ageing well. From simple daily habits to the impact of chronic conditions, Krissy shares practical insights that can help older adults maintain independence, mobility, and comfort.

This conversation highlights the small, everyday steps that make a huge difference. Krissy explains how podiatry goes far beyond toenails, touching on systemic health, falls prevention, and the role of footwear. You’ll come away with actionable advice and a deeper appreciation for the critical role podiatrists play in supporting older people.

In this episode:

• Why foot and lower limb health is critical to aging well
• The most common foot issues seen in older adults
• Age-related changes in skin, nails, circulation, and muscles
• The impact of chronic conditions like diabetes and arthritis on foot health
• Daily foot checks are vital for early detection of problems
• Foot health influences balance, mobility, and falls risk
• The importance of footwear and what to look for in supportive shoes
• The benefits of simple interventions like toenail trimming
• What to expect from a typical podiatry appointment
• Tips and tricks for self-care, including mirrors and long-handled devices
• Preventive habits like washing and drying between toes
• See a podiatrist early, even for small issues

Find a podiatrist:

• https://www.podiatry.org.au/find-a-podiatrist

Connect with Flexi Care:

• Website

Connect with Coral Wilkinson: 

• Instagram 
• LinkedIn 

Follow See Me Aged Care Navigators:

• See Me ACN website
• Facebook
• Instagram

More about Your Aged Care Compass podcast: 

Do you support an older loved one at home and you're ready to give up because it’s just too hard? Your Aged Care Compass is for you.

We're Coral and Michelle, the sisters behind our business, See Me Aged Care Navigators.

Coral is a registered nurse with over 30 years’ experience in both health and aged care. A former assessor with the aged care assessment team, an advocate and author, there’s not much Coral doesn’t know about Australia’s aged care system.

Michelle is a former pharmacist with over 30 years in the public health and private sectors of pharmacy. Michelle is the client care manager for our business. 

Our story started as one of supporting our parents to remain in their own home, to be as independent as possible and remain connected to their community. When we eventually needed extra support, we achieved this because we know Australia’s aged care system so well. We knew what programs could assist us and our parents.

Your Aged Care Compass podcast brings together not only our personal experience in supporting our parents but also our vast professional experience in supporting other families to keep their loved ones at home. 

We'll help you makes sense of Australia’s aged care system and bring you topics related to ageing as well. Legal, financial, health, forward planning and more.

 Your Aged Care Compass will guide you clearly and compassionately to the right support at the right time for your ageing parents and loved ones. 

Like what you hear? Please leave us a rating and review. We’d love you to share this podcast with any friends or family who have older loved ones.