Common Skin Problems in Seniors and How to Address Them

Skin issues are prevalent among older adults. While some are a natural part of aging, others may signal more serious health concerns. Family caregivers should be vigilant for signs of these five common skin conditions to ensure prompt medical care for their aging loved ones.

Dry Skin in Seniors

Dry, flaky skin (xerosis) is the most common skin problem among the elderly. The Mayo Clinic reports that over half of adults over age 40 experience dry skin. The reduction in oil and sweat gland function with age is a primary cause. Dry, scaly skin can be itchy, leading to scratching and an increased risk of skin infections. Severely dry skin can also crack and become painful.

Treating Dry Skin

• Use a gentle cleansing soap with moisturizer or one formulated for dry skin.

• Moisturize daily with lotion, ointment, or cream.

• Gently exfoliate if there are no improvements despite moisturizing.

• Reduce bathing frequency to every other day to be gentler on the skin.

• Avoid very hot water when bathing and washing.

• Wear loose-fitting cotton clothing rather than synthetic fabrics.

• Use a soft washcloth instead of abrasive products.

• Increase water and fluid intake to keep skin hydrated.

• Limit caffeine intake, which can cause itching.

• Use humidifiers and vaporizers to add moisture to the living environment.

Bruising in the Elderly

Elderly skin and blood vessels become more fragile, making even minor bumps and scrapes cause significant bruising. Sometimes bruises can appear without any noticeable injury.

Treating Bruises

• Apply a cold compress to reduce blood flow, bruise size, and inflammation.

• Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen that contribute to bruising.

• Consult a physician immediately if severe bruising occurs, especially for those on blood thinners.

• Elevate the limb if a bruise covers a large area of the leg or foot.

• Watch for other signs of potential elder abuse.

Pressure Sores

Pressure ulcers, or bed sores, are open wounds that develop from prolonged periods in one position. They typically occur in bed- or chair-bound individuals, with common areas being the tailbone, heels, ankles, back, and elbows.

Treating Pressure Ulcers

• Reposition every few hours to distribute pressure.

• Use gel or foam mattress toppers and alternating air pressure mattresses (covered by Medicare Part B with a doctor’s prescription).

• Keep high-risk areas clean and dry with mild soap and water, followed by a barrier cream.

• Report early signs like localized redness and warmth to a physician.

• Seek help from a wound care nurse for persistent or severe bed sores.

Shingles in the Elderly

Shingles is a painful, blistering rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. It affects the skin and nervous system, typically lasting three to five weeks. Symptoms include burning, tingling, pain, numbness, and fluid-filled blisters.

Treating Shingles

• Seek medical treatment immediately if shingles are suspected.

• Anti-viral drugs and pain medication can speed up healing and reduce discomfort.

• Vaccination with Zostavax or Shingrix can lower the risk of shingles, often covered by Medicare Part D.

Skin Cancer in Seniors

Skin cancer develops in the epidermis due to sun exposure and damage, but it can also appear in areas not usually exposed to sunlight. Common types in older adults include melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

Identifying Skin Cancer

• Monitor moles for changes in size, shape, or color.

• Watch for irregular edges, multiple colors, asymmetry, itching, oozing, bleeding, ulcerations, or sores that do not heal.

• Regular self-exams and dermatologist visits are crucial for early detection.

• A dermatologist will perform a biopsy and create a treatment plan if skin cancer is suspected.

Underlying Health Conditions

Skin changes in seniors can indicate larger health issues such as arteriosclerosis, diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, malnutrition, obesity, adverse medication reactions, and bleeding disorders. Persistent skin irritation or other symptoms should prompt a doctor's visit.

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Sources: Mayo Clinic: Dry Skin Symptoms and Causes (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-skin/symptoms-causes/syc-20353885); Skin Care and Aging (https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/skin-care-and-aging); Shingles (https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/shingles); Shingles Shot Coverage (https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/shingles-shots); Skin Cancer: Basic Facts (https://www.healthinaging.org/a-z-topic/skin-cancer/basic-facts)