Services · Thick and difficult nails
Care for thick and difficult nails.
Proper reduction of overgrown and thickened nails that standard clippers can’t manage, done conservatively by licensed technicians who know when to stop.
What's included
Gradual, careful reduction.
- Filing thickened nails down gradually
- Trimming overgrown nails to a comfortable length
- Smoothing sharp or jagged edges
- Regular rotations so nails don’t become overgrown again
- Notes for nursing staff on anything that looks like nail disease
How we work
The nails that get skipped.
Thick, hard nails are common in older adults and are the ones most likely to be left alone, because ordinary clippers can’t cut them and staff don’t have the time or tools. Over time they press against shoes and neighboring toes and make walking uncomfortable.
Our approach is to reduce them gradually with the right tools rather than forcing a cut, keeping the resident seated and supported throughout. A standing rotation keeps nails from getting back to that point.
Thickened or discolored nails can be a sign of a condition that needs a clinician. We don’t diagnose or treat nail disease. If something looks wrong, we tell your nursing staff so the resident’s podiatrist can take a look.
Related guide: Do nursing homes cut residents’ toenails? Who is allowed to do what
Safety and sanitation
Salon licensing standards, practiced in the resident's room.
Infection control is often the first question nursing staff ask. Here is how our technicians will work.
Disinfection between every resident
Reusable implements are cleaned and disinfected in an EPA-registered disinfectant that is tuberculocidal and effective against HIV and Hepatitis B, then stored in a clean closed container.
Single-use where it matters
Files, buffers and wooden sticks are used once and discarded. Nothing porous moves from one resident to the next.
Waterless when appropriate
No shared basins or soaking tubs for at-risk residents. Care is delivered dry or with single-use liners.
We stay in our lane
We are licensed nail technicians, not medical providers. We don't treat wounds, infections or nail disease. Anything of concern goes to your nursing staff or the resident's podiatrist.
Questions
Common questions
Can you trim nails that are too thick for regular clippers?
Yes. Our technicians can reduce thick nails gradually, with the right tools, rather than forcing a cut.
Why do elderly toenails curl?
Some older adults’ toenails curve more over time, and tight shoes can add pressure. A curled nail that presses into the skin, hurts or looks red needs a podiatrist, not a nail technician. Nails that are simply curved can be kept comfortable with regular, gradual trimming and filing.
How do you cut thick toenails on an elderly person?
Gradually. Thick nails are filed down a little at a time with tools suited to thick nails, rather than forced with ordinary clippers. Family members should ask the nursing staff or the resident’s podiatrist before trying it, especially if the person has diabetes or poor circulation.
Do you treat nail fungus?
No. We are licensed nail technicians, not medical providers. We don’t treat nail disease; anything that looks like it needs treatment is referred to your nursing staff or the resident’s podiatrist.
Related services
Also on every rotation
Available to senior living communities across New Jersey. See our service areas.
Manicures
Shaping, cuticle care, gentle buffing and polish. Fragrance-light products for sensitive skin.
Pedicures
Trimming, filing, callus softening and thorough foot cleaning, performed seated and fully supported.
Memory care nail care
Unhurried, low-stimulation sessions for residents who can’t come to a common area or who find change unsettling.
Contact
Request a visit
Send this over and we'll get back to you with availability and pricing for your community.
- Phone
- (908) 373-1006
- info@skillednailcare.com
- Service area
- New Jersey