Women's Personal Care: Nail Care

Here are a few tips for nail care that work for folks with all levels of vision. First, trimming fingernails. But before you jump right in, there are some things you might want to think about. Having the right tool matters so check your clippers to make sure they're sharp and large enough.

It may help if you magnify what you're doing. A video magnifier or a lens mounted to a flexible arm or lamp might give your vision the boost you need. And timing matters too. If you trim after a bath or shower or soak them in warm water, your nails will be pliable.

Now, line up the clipper on the end of the nail and clip just a little bit at a time until they're as short as you like. Run the tip of your trimmed fingernail over another finger or your lip to check for smooth edges. To file down a rough edge, move your fingernail across a steady nail file. File only in one direction rather than back and forth and your nail won't tear.

Next, let's talk toenails. Clipping toenails is going to be similar. Using a trimmer made to cut toenails, like a larger nail clipper, plier-style clippers or manicure scissors will make the job easier. Like fingernails, toenails will also be more pliable after soaking or bathing. Now, line up the clipper across the end of the toenail and trim straight across the top. Feel that the nail is trimmed down to the tip of the toe.

Lastly, trim the sides of the nail and you're good to go. As with anything, practice makes this task go a lot smoother. Contact a learning expert with any questions you may have or for more tips like this one.