They swell up because of circulation problems which at his age includes heart failure, poss kidney problems. H should really see his doc because it can be dealt with medically. Is he breathless as well, does he cough, is he tired?
If he wont see the doc, then he can try resting with his feet higher than his hips and waggling his feet and ankles while he is resting.
dorromay, you may be new to Ab but there is no need to call anyone an old bugger. As regards age limit, why should there be an the age restriction. We are all here to help each other and do not shout anyone down.