Skin care is extremely important for seniors. There are many things that can impact a senior’s skin like weather changes, hormonal changes, medication, and health problems. As seniors get older the fat pad under the skin starts to break down and dissolve. That leaves seniors with extremely fragile skin that can be bruised, damaged, or sustain cuts and scratches very easily. Seniors can also develop rashes and infections that can lead to ulcers and other serious skin problems.

One way that seniors can avoid skin problems is to rely on the help of personal care at home. With personal care at home seniors will get regular baths and daily cleaning as well as dedicated skin care that will help eliminate rashes and sores while protecting the skin. In addition to personal care at home seniors and their caregivers should use these skin care tips to keep the skin healthy, especially when the weather is changing is because the seasons are changing:

Use Medicated Wipes

Medicated cleaning wipes are the best for seniors to use because they can stop bacteria from getting into any openings in the skin. That can prevent bed sores, skin infections, rashes, and other skin problems. If seniors aren’t getting a bath or shower every day they should at least get a quick wipe off with medicated wipes to protect their skin. Seniors who have incontinence should always have medicated wipes available to protect from bacteria.

Don’t Use Very Hot Water To Wash

Very hot water can damage skin pretty easily. But no one enjoys using cold water to shower or wash their hands. Seniors should bath and wash their hands and faces in tepid or warm water not hot water. Water that is too hot can damage a senior’s delicate skin and it may even cause burns. If your senior parent has personal care at home, the provider will always check the temperature of the water before helping your senior loved one wash up or bathe.

Use Medicated Therapeutic Grade Lotion

Seniors need to have lotion applied to their skin multiple times per day, but regular lotion isn’t going to meet the needs of seniors. Seniors should always use a heavy duty lotion made for the needs of seniors or those who suffer from clinically dry skin. The lotion should be cream based and contain a heavy duty emollient like shea butter. Lotions for seniors should also not contain any chemical or synthetic fragrance because seniors with sensitive skin may be allergic to those kinds of fragrances.

Keep Skin Dry

Seniors need to keep their skin dry also. In the winter seniors tend to have dry skin because the air indoor is hot and dry. But seniors can still get wet skin in areas that are often exposed to moisture. Seniors who are incontinent should use powder or spray powder to make sure that their skin is clean and dry throughout the day. They also should be changing briefs regularly to avoid staying in a soiled brief for hours.

If you or an aging loved one is considering personal care at home in Cranford, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Adult Alternative Home Care today. (888) 664-1769

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Lorraine Arkaifie, MSN, AGPCNP-BC

Founder & Director of Services at Adult Alternative Home Care

After completing nursing school in 2009, she worked as a Registered Nurse with the elderly in nursing homes, hospitals and in their homes. She went on to complete advance nurse training with a focus in Geriatrics. As she gained more clinical experience, she was encouraged to pursue her dreams of establishing a home care organization that will provide excellent services to members of her community. With over ten years clinical knowledge, she has perfected the skills to establish rapport and support of the frail and elderly we serve. She loves what she does and will love to help you or your loved ones get the care and support they need.

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