References
Eczema and the older person
Abstract
Age-related changes lead to an increase in skin problems, and around 70% of older people have a treatable skin condition. However, ageing and poor physical health can make it difficult for older people to care for their skin. Eczema, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, where the skin becomes red, inflamed, itchy and scaly, can develop easily in older adults. This can, in turn, become infected and cause discomfort and health problems. This article explains how ageing affects the skin, how eczema can develop and how it can be treated, also touching upon the different types of eczema. It aims to equip community nurses with knowledge about this common condition and how to recognise and manage it.
The skin is the largest organ in the human body and has five main functions: protection, sensation, heat regulation, storage and absorption. It provides a barrier to prevent harmful bacteria from entering the body and protects the internal organs from damage. It also prevents the leakage of vital chemicals and fluids. As the skin ages, its barrier function deteriorates, which affects immune function and increases the risk of the older person developing skin problems. Its lipid and water content decreases, and the skin becomes dryer (Nigam and Knight, 2017). Ageing skin is more prone to a range of conditions, including infections, infestations, eczema and psoriasis and has increased vulnerability to skin damage, such as pressure ulcers, leg ulcers and skin tears, as well as having decreased healing ability (Kottner et al, 2013; Stojadinovic et al, 2013).
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Community Nursing and reading some of our peer-reviewed resources for district and community nurses. To read more, please register today. You’ll enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Limited access to clinical or professional articles
-
New content and clinical newsletter updates each month