This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.

Why do seniors develop swollen ankles?

Swelling in the lower legs and ankles occurs when fluid accumulates in the tissues (edema). In seniors, this can happen for many reasons: reduced mobility that limits the calf-muscle pump, weakened veins that allow blood to pool, age-related changes in kidney and heart function, and side effects from medications. Chronic venous insufficiency and reduced activity are especially common contributors. Identifying whether swelling is bilateral (both ankles) or unilateral (one side) helps narrow likely causes and guides next steps.

What causes swollen ankles in the elderly?

Common causes in the elderly include heart failure, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, venous disorders, lymphedema, and certain medications such as calcium channel blockers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or some diabetes medications. Injury, infection, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) are other possibilities. Multiple conditions can coexist in an older person, so a careful medical history and physical exam are important to determine whether swelling is benign or requires targeted treatment.

How do swollen ankles affect feet and mobility?

Swollen ankles change how the feet fit into shoes, increase pressure on skin and joints, and can limit walking distance or stability. For seniors, reduced balance and altered gait increase fall risk. Persistent edema may stretch skin and make it more prone to cracking and infection. Managing swelling can therefore directly improve comfort, shoe fit, and day-to-day mobility. Simple measures—appropriate footwear, gentle exercises to promote circulation, and skin care—can make daily activities safer and more comfortable.

When should a senior seek medical care for swollen ankles?

Seek prompt medical attention if swelling is sudden, severe, painful, warm/red, or accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, or fever; these signs may indicate DVT, pulmonary embolism, or heart failure. For gradual swelling, consult a clinician when it interferes with mobility, is persistent despite home measures, or when there are worrying symptoms such as reduced urine output, significant weight gain, or changes in consciousness. A clinician will consider history, medications, and may order blood tests, urine tests, chest X-ray, echocardiogram, or venous ultrasound.

Managing swollen ankles for overall health

Conservative measures can reduce swelling and support overall health. Elevate legs above heart level several times daily and avoid long periods of sitting or standing. Compression stockings can help if venous insufficiency is present, but they should be fitted and recommended by a clinician. Reduce excessive dietary salt when advised, maintain a healthy weight, and engage in regular low-impact activity (walking, ankle pumps) to improve circulation. Review medications with a prescriber to identify possible culprits. For specific diagnoses, treatments may include diuretics, procedures to address venous reflux, or management of heart or kidney disease.

Conclusion

Swollen ankles are common in seniors and have many potential causes ranging from harmless to serious. Observing whether swelling is one- or two-sided, noting accompanying symptoms, and reviewing medications are useful first steps. Many cases respond to elevation, movement, compression, and attention to underlying conditions, but sudden or painful swelling and symptoms such as breathlessness warrant immediate medical assessment. Coordinated care with a primary clinician or specialist can clarify the cause and establish a safe, effective plan to protect mobility, skin integrity, and overall health.