Elderly Nail Care: A Small Detail Families Should Not Overlook

Proper nail care helps reduce ingrown nails and infection—supporting safer, more confident movement.

Why Is Nail Care Important for Older Adults?

Caring for older adults involves more than nutrition, sleep, and exercise. Small details such as nail care for older adults also matter. Thick, hard nails or incorrect trimming may lead to ingrown nails, wounds, infection, and difficulty walking.

How to Trim an Older Adult’s Nails Correctly

Cut Straight Across Without Trimming Too Short

This helps prevent ingrown nails. Avoid cutting deeply into the corners or shaping the nail too closely to the curve of the fingertip.

Trim After a Warm Bath

The nails will be softer and easier to trim, reducing splitting and accidental skin injury.

File the Nail Edges Smooth

This helps prevent nails from catching on clothing or scratching the skin, especially in older adults with fragile skin.

Moisturise the Nails and Surrounding Skin

This helps reduce dryness and cracking of the nails and surrounding skin, lowering the risk of tears and infection.

Comprehensive Older Adult Care at KIN

“KIN” provides holistic health care for older adults through a multidisciplinary team that includes:

Neurology and Nervous-System Specialists

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physicians and Internal Medicine Specialists

Registered Nurses

Physical Therapists and Occupational Therapists

Psychologists and Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners

Sports Scientists and Dietitians

Consult Our Specialists — Free of Charge

Lat Phrao 71 Branch

Call: 091-803-3071

Sukhumvit 107 Branch

Call: 065-909-2599

Pattaya Branch

Call: 082-213-9976

Ratchaphruek Branch

Call: 065-384-5494

Senior Nail Care: A Small Detail with Big Impacts on Health and Mobility