I am a senior who walks a lot and has to debride the dead skin with a foot scraper. When I was younger this was not the case. Why do I have this problem now?

It's understandable that you're noticing changes in your skin as you age. The increased need for a foot scraper is likely due to several age-related factors that affect your skin:

Reduced Moisture: As we get older, our skin tends to produce less oil, which helps to keep it moisturized. This can lead to drier skin all over the body, including your feet. Dry skin is more prone to the buildup of dead skin cells.   Slower Skin Cell Turnover: The rate at which your body sheds old skin cells and replaces them with new ones slows down with age. This can result in a thicker layer of dead skin accumulating on the soles of your feet.   Thinner Skin: The outer layer of your skin (epidermis) becomes thinner as you age. This can make it more fragile and less effective at retaining moisture, contributing to dryness and the buildup of dead skin.   Decreased Circulation: Blood circulation can decrease with age, which can affect the health of your skin and its ability to repair itself. Poor circulation can contribute to dry skin and slower healing.   Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain health conditions that are more common in older adults, such as diabetes and peripheral artery disease, can also cause or worsen dry skin and foot problems. Medications: Some medications can have side effects that include dry skin.   Since you walk a lot, this puts regular pressure and friction on your feet, which can further contribute to the development of calluses (thickened areas of dead skin).

Here are a few things that might help manage this:

Moisturize Regularly: Apply a good quality foot cream or moisturizer, especially after showering or bathing, to help keep your skin hydrated. Look for creams containing ingredients like urea, salicylic acid, or lactic acid, which can help to soften and exfoliate dead skin. Soak Your Feet: Soaking your feet in warm water for about 10-15 minutes can help to soften the dead skin before using a foot scraper. Make sure the water isn't too hot, as this can further dry out your skin.   Use a Foot Scraper Gently: When using a foot scraper, do so gently and avoid removing too much skin at once. It's better to do it more frequently and remove a little at a time to avoid injury. Consider using a pumice stone or a nano glass foot file, which can be gentler. Wear Appropriate Shoes and Socks: Choose comfortable, well-fitting shoes and socks that allow your feet to breathe. Avoid shoes that cause excessive friction or pressure. Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is important for overall skin health and can help to prevent dryness.   Consider a Humidifier: If the air in your home is dry, especially during winter, using a humidifier can help to add moisture to the air and prevent your skin from drying out too quickly.   Consult a Healthcare Professional: If the dry skin on your feet is severe, painful, or doesn't improve with home care, it's a good idea to consult with your doctor or a podiatrist. They can assess your condition, rule out any underlying medical issues, and recommend the best course of treatment for you. It's a common experience for seniors to develop drier skin, but with the right care, you can definitely manage it and keep your feet more comfortable.