Pedicures Are a Necessity for Some California Seniors. Closed Nail Salons Leave Them at Risk

Routine pedicures are critical for some older Californians to help prevent infections, and the closure of nail salons because of the COVID-19 pandemic could threaten their foot health, reports the Palm Springs Desert Sun . The physical infirmities of age can make trimming one's toenails difficult or even impossible, and the risk of infection is higher because family members are usually hesitant to administer foot care to seniors during the pandemic. Infections in people with diabetes can spread, with results that include nerve damage, pain, tingling, and numbness in the extremities — which can lead to amputation in some cases. Anthony Mai with the Sunshine Nail Salon in Palm Springs said even before salons were forced to close again due to resurgent infections, many seniors were not ready to return for pedicures. Meanwhile, podiatrist offices remain open with additional precautions like reduced capacity, more distance between visitors in waiting rooms, and air filters in waiting rooms.