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.
