Skin Care for the Elderly

Seniors have thinner, more delicate skin, and incontinence and a sedentary lifestyle can easily lead to skin breakdown. Experienced caregivers offer their best suggestions for maintaining skin integrity and health.

Scabies is a common skin condition in long-term care facilities like nursing homes and assisted living communities. The resulting rash can be extremely uncomfortable, and may take multiple rounds of treatment to get rid of the parasites.

Seniors who refuse to stop picking at their skin can create open wounds, infection, and scarring. There may not be an obvious reason or cure for this behavior, but there are underlying triggers that can be addressed.

Common skin conditions in the elderly like dryness and bruising can be bothersome, but they can also point to more serious underlying health problems. Knowing what symptoms to look for and how to treat them can help you maintain a senior’s skin integrity.

The condition of a senior’s fingernails can indicate the presence of medical issues like heart disease, thyroid issues and malnutrition, which can be especially serious in elderly individuals.

Pressure ulcers, also known as bed sores, are a painful and potentially very serious medical condition. Family caregivers offer their best tips for caring for a senior who is experiencing bed sores.

Millions of adults have bowel control problems, but most are reluctant to talk about this condition and seek help. Get the information you need to start the discussion, explore treatment options and help your loved one improve their quality of life.

Pressure ulcers (bed sores) are often considered a sign of poor care or neglect, but these painful wounds can happen to any senior. Prevention and early detection are crucial for keeping an elder's skin healthy.

Many people believe the odor that sometimes permeates seniors’ homes and elder care facilities is a result of poor hygiene, but it is actually a natural part of aging.

Even when blood sugar levels are properly managed, individuals with diabetes can develop serious health concerns. Learn the signs and symptoms to watch out for.

Advanced age and a compromised immune system can make seniors more susceptible to shingles, a disease that affects the nerves and causes a painful, blistering skin rash.

Making a person who is dying more comfortable and alleviating physical pain is an important priority for family caregivers. Physical comfort and pain management should be the focus of providing end of life care.

Harsh winter weather can be especially damaging to sensitive older skin. Use these six tips to prevent dry skin, cracking, itching and eczema.

Everyone wants and needs a little sunshine, but the sun's rays can be damaging to an elderly person's skin. Dermatologist Arielle Kauvar talks about ways to protect senior skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays using sunscreen, sun protective clothing, sunglasses and other methods.

Diabetes can harm the skin in two ways: through fluid loss and nerve damage.

The combination of nerve damage and poor circulation can cause serious foot problems for diabetics. Learn proper foot care techniques and tips for talking to your doctor that will help you put your best foot forward.

Swollen extremities are common, especially during the heat of summer, but persistent swelling may point to a serious underlying condition. Experienced caregivers share their best tips for monitoring edema, reducing inflammation and improving circulation.

Many seniors require regular pedicures or trips to the podiatrist, but a few simple at-home steps can help keep their feet well maintained between appointments. Veteran caregivers share their home remedies for issues like dry heels and thick toenails.

Proper foot care is an important part of an elder’s overall health but deciding whether to go to a doctor’s office or a salon for these services can be confusing. Veteran caregivers offer their best advice on how to care for a senior’s feet.

We’ve compiled experienced caregivers’ best suggestions for keeping an aging loved one safe, cozy and clean despite the chilly weather. Do you have any tips for helping seniors thrive during the winter months?