Addressing the skin-care needs of the older person

Major skin changes are one of the many features occurring with ageing and it is estimated that 70% of elderly people have skin problems (APGS, 2000). A report into skin diseases in elderly people highlighted that older people were noted to suffer from a lack of sensitivity to their skin care needs and related problems, training was lacking for healthcare professionals and service provision was not planned (APGS, 2000). The aim of this article is to highlight the importance of skin care in the older person and increase the nurse's knowledge in relation to the care of ageing skin; the skin changes associated with age and practical advice and guidance when caring for an older person's skin.