Nail care is one of the most commonly overlooked grooming needs among elderly clients, both by caregivers and care center staff. In many states, care staff are not permitted to trim fingernails or toenails due to liability and scope-of-practice limitations. As a result, clients are often left with only two options: waiting for a podiatry appointment or visiting a nail professional. Unfortunately, many older adults have a strong aversion to having their feet touched or nails clipped. This resistance may stem from previous negative experiences—times when they were cut, rushed, or handled without adequate sensitivity. For clients with dementia or mobility challenges, the fear or discomfort can be even more pronounced. Because of this, high-quality tools, proper training, and genuine patience are essential when providing nail services to geriatric clients. Nails may be overgrown, tender, thickened, fungal, or painful, and the client may be anxious or easily startled. When approached with skill and compassion, nail care becomes more than a grooming service—it becomes an important part of maintaining comfort, dignity, and mobility.

Weekly appointments for elderly clients benefit not only the stylist’s pocketbook and the client’s hair, but also their overall well-being. Many weekly clients become genuine friends, forming meaningful, long-lasting bonds with their stylists. For many seniors—especially those living alone or in care centers—physical touch becomes less frequent as they age. A relaxing shampoo, a gentle shoulder squeeze, or even a warm hug can mean the world to them. While caregivers provide necessary physical assistance, it’s not the same as being pampered and cared for in the salon. That moment of connection, comfort, and touch can truly nourish a geriatric client’s soul. I look forward to sharing all the ways you can make weekly appointments not only lucrative, but deeply meaningful—for both you and the clients you serve.

Some of my most meaningful interactions happen while providing services for my memory care clients. Strong communication skills are essential—not just for you, but for your clients as well. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that communication comes in many forms. Reading body language and noticing subtle shifts in behavior can make the difference between earning the trust of a wary memory care client and being unable to complete a needed service. When treated with respect, dignity, and genuine care, most clients will relax into your expertise and allow you to complete services they may have otherwise resisted. It can feel intimidating to work with a client who is unsure or hesitant, but remember that many of these services are essential to the well-being of individuals who can no longer perform their own self-care tasks. Another common challenge for stylists working in memory care settings is navigating the repetitive behaviors and conversations that can occur with clients who have dementia or Alzheimer’s. A person’s ability to communicate can vary widely and may even change from day to day. Some clients may not speak at all, others may communicate only through nods or gestures, some may repeat the same questions or stories, and others may hold a conversation with little indication of memory loss. The saying "patience is a virtue" really rings true when working with clients dealing with dementia.

Working with geriatric clients comes with unique challenges, incredible opportunities, and a level of fulfillment that you don’t often find in a traditional salon. Over the years, through my work in care centers, assisted living communities, and senior housing, I’ve learned so much—not just about cosmetology, but about connection, dignity, and joy. I created this group to support and encourage other cosmetologists who want to succeed in these environments. Many stylists simply aren’t aware of the opportunities, and others may feel hesitant or unsure. My goal is to change that by sharing knowledge, resources, and real-world experience so more cosmetologists feel confident and empowered when serving geriatric clients. I look forward to building a community of learning, compassion, and creativity—and to bringing more joy to the seniors we serve.