Itchy and Dry Skin

Dry skin doesn’t necessarily mean that there is an issue with your elderly loved one’s skin. However, if it isn’t treated, this could become an issue. Research shows that many elderly adults develop dry skin on their lower legs, forearms, and elbows. Their skin starts to get scaly and rough. This can create severe itchiness. There are many things that can contribute to itchy and dry skin including losing sweat glands, losing oil in the skin, stress, dehydration, and more. If your elderly loved one has itchy and dry skin and ointments or lotions don’t help, have them see their doctor for other treatment options.

Bed Sores

Many elderly adults have to stay in their beds for a long time. They might have a health condition that prevents them from getting up a lot or they may need to recover after surgery. Staying in bed for too long can cause bed sores. If you notice that your elderly loved one has red, darkened, or discolored areas on their skin and they have been in bed a lot, these could be bedsores. You can have your elderly loved one moved for a while and have them stay hydrated. If these things don’t work after a couple of days, you can have their elder care provider take them to the doctor.

Shingles

Research shows that about 1 million U.S citizens get shingles each year. If your elderly loved one gets shingles, they may be in a lot of pain and discomfort. Generally, this condition will last between 2 to 4 weeks. If you notice that your elderly loved one has a fever, general weakness, pain, burning, and a blistering rash, they could have shingles. They should be taken to their doctor for the proper treatments.

Skin Cancer

Your elderly loved one may develop skin cancer, as well. Thousands of elderly adults get skin cancer every year. If you notice any new moles on your elderly loved one’s skins or any changing moles, they should see their doctor for an assessment. The moles may be different colors, the edges may be rough or discolored, or they could even be painful.

These are some of the skin conditions that are commonly found in elderly adults. If your elderly loved one is experiencing any of these signs, be sure they get the proper assessments and treatments as soon as possible.

If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Elder Care in Mullica Hill, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Attentive Care Inc. 1-800-493-5660

Sources
Medicinenet.com
Healthline.com
Msktc.org/sci
Cdc.gov

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