This year, we are once again partnering with the City of Albuquerque to host no-cost foot care clinics and Medicare 101 presentations to seniors throughout the Albuquerque area.
Trimming toenails is a task most people don’t think much about. But getting older often has a way of making seemingly simple tasks more challenging.
Janet Simon, Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, MEd, with the New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute said as we age, foot health can change and impact overall health. Maintaining healthy toenails is not just cosmetic — it is important for preventing ingrown nails, infections, foot pain and falls.
“For many older adults, toenails can become thicker and harder to cut,” Simon said. “Reduced flexibility can make it more difficult to get into the right position to cut them.”
That’s why BCBSNM is partnering with the City of Albuquerque Department of Senior Affairs to bring no-cost toenail trimming services to senior and multigenerational centers across the city.
Paula Iwanaga visited Manzano Mesa Multigenerational Center during the Aug. 30 event, where she sought toenail trimming services from Simon inside the BCBSNM Care Van®.
“She’s very knowledgeable and gave some great advice,” Iwanaga said about Simon. “Seniors should take advantage of these services.”
The Care Van offers a private setting where Simon uses a special toenail trimming tool designed to trim thicker toenails. She educates seniors on how to use and where to get similar tools, and why it’s important to maintain good toenail and foot health. She’ll even educate seniors’ family members and caregivers on how to trim toenails correctly.
“A lot of people are intimidated to cut their loved ones’ toenails,” Simon said. “So, I teach them how to do it the right way and with what kind of tools.”
Please join us at an upcoming stop along the CABQ Care Van series tour:
- Wednesday, Oct. 25, from 9 a.m. to noon at Bear Canyon Senior Center
- Wednesday, Nov. 29, from 9 a.m. to noon at Palo Duro Sports & Fitness Center
- Wednesday, Dec. 13, from 9 a.m. to noon at Highland Senior Center
Additionally, a Medicare 101 presentation will be conducted at each location from 10 to 11 a.m.. Attendees will learn about the various aspects of Medicare, what is covered, general costs and how Medicare works. Pre-registration is not required but is helpful. You may register at your local senior center.
Transportation to the Care Van events may be provided. Visit your local center’s front desk for more information or to sign up.
