Caring For the Aging Skin

As we grow older, our skin naturally changes. The severity of these changes can be influenced by lifestyle choices, diet and heredity. Elderly skin must be treated and handled differently when compared to youthful or even middle aged skin. It is vital for the elderly and their caregivers to understand the common problems faced by the elderly and how to identify, prevent and treat them.

Below is a list of common skin problems most likely encountered by the elderly today.

1. Dry Skin 

As we age, our skin becomes thinner and is less able to retain moisture. Hence, dry and thin skin is more prone to cracking, itching and pain. This condition will probably cause the skin to tear more easily as well, which can lead to the introduction of bacteria. The elderly has a weaker immune system, and we won’t want to introduce any infection through torn skin to the elderly. Dry skin is also contributed partly from the loss of oil glands.

Solution:

•  Over the counter lotions and moisturizers are readily available at pharmacy outlets, which one can use to rehydrate elderly skin.
•  For severely dry skin or eczema, these conditions may need to be treated with prescription medicated creams. Kindly check with your doctor or your pharmacist today.
•  Humidifiers can also be used to put more moisture in the air, as a dry environment can also hasten the drying of elderly skin. 
• Elderly individuals should limit bathing times and avoid hot baths (use warm water instead of hot water, if possible) and avoid using bubbly products. These individuals should always bathe after being in a pool or spa containing chlorine.
•  They should drink more liquids, avoid alcohol, spicy foods and caffeine.

2. Bed Sores

Also known as pressure ulcers or pressure sores, this skin problem forms when the elderly sit in a chair or lie in bed for extended periods of time without proper movement. Sitting or lying down for a continuous period of time cuts off blood supply to the skin, causing a painful red sore that can eventually turn purple, break open and become infected. Bed sores can progress quickly and be slow to heal, especially given the thinned nature of elderly skin.

Solution:

• Prevention includes frequent position changes, inspecting elderly skin for signs of bed sores, proper nutrition, quitting smoking, daily exercise, applying vitamin E to the skin, avoiding meat, including fiber in the diet, and enhancing circulation through massage.
• Treatments include changing positions often, using specialized cushions, pads, and beds, keeping wounds clean, removing damaged tissue, dressing the sores, hydrotherapy, oral antibiotics, eating a healthy diet, and surgical repair, though this is rare.

 3. Statis Dermatitis

Stasis Dermatitis is a skin condition characterized by redness, swelling, tenderness, and dry scaly skin. It usually occurs after age 50. More common in women, this skin condition is caused by poor circulation in the lower legs. Intense itching and scratching can result in bruising, skin ulcers, and extensive damage to the leg.

Solution:

• Treatments include raising the affected leg, wrapping the leg tightly in an elastic bandage and medication.