Summer Skincare for the Elderly

Skin is the largest organ and its proper care is essential for the overall well-being of the body. Like other organs, the skin is also likely to undergo biological changes with aging making it more sensitive and susceptible to many diseases and infections. That is because it gets drier and thinner with age exposing the surface to itching and damage.

There are several changes and conditions that can affect the skin as a person ages. This is dependent on various factors like lifestyle, food habits, family history, stress levels and individual habits. The common aging skin problems include-

• Roughening
• Wrinkling
• Occurrence of benign growths, age spots and face movement lines
• Transparency
• Quick bruising
• Loosening of facial skin especially around the eyes, jaws and cheeks
• Dryness and itching
• Bedsores
• Skin related diseases like xerosis, pruritis, dermatitis, purpura, chronic venous insufficiencies and even cancer.

Elderly Skin Care Importance

Apart from reducing the risk of skin disorders, giving a healthy complexion and improving the physical appearance by combating the aging effects, skincare is important because-

• Aging makes skin fragile as its outer layer(epidermis) loses the elasticity and connective tissues making it thin, transparent and weak.
• There are greater chances of bruising due to the weakening of blood vessels and the deterioration of fat tissue.
• Healing takes longer time due to the slowdown of body processes and reduced rate of replacement of skin cells.
• The long exposure to ultraviolet rays of the sun over the years can damage the skin leading to sagging. Besides, the natural gravitation of the earth hampers the skin firmness.
• The problems of dryness and itchiness increase because the number of sebaceous glands decreases with age leading to the reduction of natural lubrication.
• Bedsores can occur even in seniors who have mobility constraints and are not necessarily bed-ridden.
• The cold air of the winter season can cause redness and irritation of the skin.

Essential Skincare Tips

• Elders should try to minimize the number of showers taken daily. Though it is necessary to maintain hygiene, repeated bathing can strain and damage the skin. It is also important to avoid very hot steaming water for bathing purposes.
• Milder and skin safe soaps are recommended. Soaps that contain chemicals and artificial ingredients or fragrances must be avoided as they damage the skin.
• It is vital to keep the skin well-hydrated. After bathing, it is good to apply mild moisturisers.
• Water and other healthy beverages must be consumed abundantly throughout the day. This helps in preventing dehydration particularly in the hot season and ensures that the toxins are properly flushed out of the body to maintain skin health.
• The bed sheets, clothes and sanitary products of bed-ridden senior patients must be changed frequently.
• Elders going outside must use sunscreen lotion to avoid over-exposure to sunlight.
• Proper nutrition containing foods rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants must be taken regularly. Berries, avocadoes, nuts, green vegetables and salmon can be eaten. Such healthy food for seniors aids the skin in retaining its integrity against aging, expedites the healing process and provides a better complexion.
• Elders can also take skin care food supplements containing ingredients like vitamins(C, D, E and K),minerals (magnesium and zinc),collagens and omega-3 fatty acids for boosting skin health.
• Tobacco usage and smoking must be strictly avoided.
• A room humidifier may be used during winter and other dry durations.
• Seniors should not remain in the same position while lying down or sitting as the skin is subjected to pressure leading to sores and ulcers.
• A close observation on the skin is a must to monitor any changes like changing moles and onset of abnormal growths.
• Saunas and salons must be avoided as hot steaming air can easily dehydrate the skin.
• Regular consultations with the dermatologist are beneficial for evaluating skin health and taking appropriate treatment.

Incorporating these steps in the daily routines promotes better senior skincare and health fostering a blissful life ahead!