Summary Continuous evaluation, judicious care, and a team approach are essential to help elderly men and women who have diabetes mellitus. Their foot problems are many and the complications are serious. Besides teaching any diabetic the best possible foot hygiene, geriatric nurses in particular should look for any evidence of infection or mechanical impediment, such as tight shoes, that may damage tissue and serve as a portal for infection. The abnormalities to refer promptly to a podiatrist include ingrown toenail, a callus on the plantar surface of the first and fifth metatarsal, corn on the toe, trauma, hallux abducto valgus (bunion), tailor's bunion (bunionette involving the fifth metatarsal head), athlete's foot, or dermatitis. From the standpoint of prevention, it is important for nurses to seek medical consultation for patients who exhibit any of the early signs of peripheral vascular disease described in the following article by Schaefer.