Whether it pertains to stairlifts or not, when Acorn Stairlifts says that we care about our customers and their well-being, only wanting to give them the best, we mean it.
This also applies to our customers’ overall quality of life.
We want you to lead the healthiest, happiest, and most fulfilling lives possible. We want to see you succeed and reach new heights not only in mobility and independence but in all areas of their lives.
Without further ado, welcome back to “Acorn Stairlifts Tip of the Week,” a series in which we will equip seniors with all the knowledge, tools, and helpful advice that they need to succeed in their lives—ranging anywhere from physical health, to saving money with senior discounts, and just about everything in between.
Read on to learn how you can start feeling good in your own skin as a senior.
The Acorn Stairlifts Senior Tip of the Week
Start feeling good in your skin as a senior by taking proper care of it.
Everyone deserves to feel good in their own skin—Both literally and metaphorically.
With the skin being the body’s largest organ, it is absolutely essential that you take proper care of it in order to live a long and healthy life.
This is especially true for seniors, a demographic of people who are at a higher risk for skin complications and conditions such as skin cancer and skin infections.
What are Some of the Most Common Skin Conditions for Seniors?
Naturally, as we age, our bodies begin to change. This also applies to our skin.
Below are common skin conditions that seniors are more likely to experience as they grow older.
Dry Skin (Xerosis)
Xerosis, also known as dry skin, is a common dermatological condition characterized by dryness, roughness, and flakiness of the skin.
It occurs when the skin's natural moisture and lipid barrier are compromised, leading to a lack of hydration and moisture retention.
Because ageing skin tends to produce less natural oil, the skin is more susceptible to dryness, itchiness, and a rougher skin texture.
Age Spots (Solar Lentigines)
Age spots, also known as liver spots or solar lentigines, are small, flat, darkened areas of skin that commonly appear on areas of the body that have been exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, shoulders, and arms.
Despite the name "age spots," they are not necessarily caused by age itself but rather by long-term exposure of the skin to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.
UV radiation can lead to an increase in the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. When melanin production becomes uneven or concentrated in certain areas, age spots can form.
While age spots are generally harmless and do not require medical treatment, some people may choose to have them evaluated by a dermatologist to ensure they are not a more concerning skin condition, such as melanoma (a type of skin cancer).
Skin Thinning (Atrophy)
Skin thinning, also known as dermal atrophy, refers to the gradual reduction in the thickness and structural integrity of the skin's deeper layers, particularly the dermis.
The dermis is the layer of skin located beneath the outermost layer (epidermis) and contains important structural components like collagen, elastin, and other connective tissues.
As people age, the natural ageing process leads to a decline in the production of collagen and elastin, proteins that provide support and elasticity to the skin. This results in thinner, more fragile skin.
Pruritus (Itchy skin)
Pruritus, commonly known as itching, is a sensation that causes the desire to scratch the skin.
Pruritus in older people can be caused by various factors, and it may occur alone or as a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
Some of the many examples of possible causes of pruritis include:
- Infections
- Allergic reactions
- Dry skin (Xerosis)
- Medications
- Skin cancer
- Neurological disorders
Skin Infections
As people age, their skin undergoes changes that can make them more susceptible to certain types of infections. Some common senior skin infections include:
- Fungal infections (e.g., athlete's foot)
- bacterial infections
- viral infections
- Herpes Zoster (Shingles)
- Pressure ulcers
- Cellulitis
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer worldwide and is primarily caused by the cumulative exposure of the skin to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. This type of cancer develops directly in the skin cells.
The risk of developing skin cancer increases with age, especially if there has been significant sun exposure throughout life. However, some other reasons that seniors are especially susceptible to skin cancer include:
- Weakened immune systems
- Changes in skin such as thinning
- Having a history of sunburns
- Delayed detection
Wrinkles and Fine Lines
Wrinkles are creases or folds in the skin that develop as the skin loses its elasticity and firmness over time.
These visible changes in the skin's texture and appearance are primarily due to the natural ageing process, as well as various external factors such as the following:
- Reduced elastin
- Smoking
- Sun exposure
- Decreased collagen production
- Repeated facial expressions
Wrinkles and fine lines are nothing to be ashamed of. They make up a beautiful map of our lives, with each line and wrinkle embodying wisdom and representing all the things that we have experienced and endured.
What are the Benefits of Taking Care of Your Skin as a Senior?
Taking care of your skin as a senior is not just about aesthetics; It's about maintaining your overall health and well-being.
A consistent skincare routine, sun protection, and regular skin checks can help you age gracefully and enjoy healthier skin in your later years.
Here are some of the benefits that you can expect to experience when you take proper care of your skin as a senior:
- Reduces common skin conditions such as dryness, itchiness, or inflammation
- Helps the skin retain moisture, which maintains skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of wrinkles
- Increases protection from UV damage that can accelerate ageing and increase risks of skin cancer
- Helps you look and feel better
- Improves your self-esteem and overall confidence
- Reduces the risk of cancer
- Reduces skin discolouration such as age spots or sunspots
- Strengthens the skin's barrier function, reducing the risk of infections and irritation
- Prevents and reduces the risk of bacterial and fungal skin infections
- Alleviates skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis
- Improves circulation from skin massages
- Enhances comfort, as skin is less dry, itchy, irritated, or uncomfortable
- Reduced reliance on cosmetics for achieving desired look
- Prevents painful pressure sores
What are the Detriments of NOT Taking Proper Care of Your Skin as a Senior?
Neglecting proper skincare as a senior can have several disadvantages and negative consequences for your skin, health, and overall well-being.
Here are some of the disadvantages of not taking care of your skin as a senior:
- Accelerates signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots
- Reduces moisture in skin, decreasing skin elasticity
- Exacerbates skin dryness and irritation associated with old age
- Increases vulnerability to skin infections due to skin thinning and increased skin fragility
- Significantly increases the already higher risk of skin cancer
- Exacerbates skin conditions such as rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis
- Decreases self-esteem and overall confidence
- Increases pain and discomfort due to frequently itchy or irritated skin
- Increases the risk of painful pressure sores
- Increases depression and anxiety about ageing, health, and/or appearance
- Increases skin discolouration from conditions such as age spots or sunspots
- Increases the dependency on cosmetics for achieved look, which can also further exacerbate skin conditions
- Reduces circulation due to a lack of massaging of the skin
- Weakens the skin's barrier function, increasing the risk of infections and irritation due to allergens, irritants, and pollutants
- Increases lengths of recovery and healing time
- Limits treatment options
Save Your Skin—Learn How to Take Care of Your Skin as a Senior
Want to learn how you can save your skin and show off that envious, healthy glow, even as a senior?
Click here to read some tips on how you can start properly caring for your mature skin and shining from the inside out.