As we age, the skin of the elderly becomes thinner, its defenses weaken, and wound healing slows down. Skin tears, pressure sores, moisture damage, and dry itching become common problems that plague the elderly. Mastering scientific care methods is the key line of defense to protect the skin health of the elderly.

(1) Skin lacerations :

The skin is thin and fragile and can tear with the slightest pull. Extremely gentle handling is required:

When cleaning, use a mild detergent containing phospholipids to avoid irritation from alkaline soap. Shorten the bathing time, gently dry with a soft towel after bathing, and immediately apply a nutrient-rich moisturizer to lock in moisture. When assisting with turning over or moving, be sure to move gently to avoid dragging. After changing body positions, use a soft pillow to support the body's fulcrum.

Try to use dressings containing silicone gel. Dressings should be applied without tension and removed at a straight angle (0° or 180°). Use adhesive removers when necessary. For those with extremely fragile skin, avoid using dressings with strong adhesion, such as films and hydrocolloids.

( 2 ) Pressure injury :

Preventing pressure sores is like putting on a "bulletproof vest" for the skin. The key lies in "movement" and "reduction":

Frequent changes of posture are key. Bedridden people should turn over at least every 2 hours, and wheelchair users should support and lift their hips every 15-30 minutes. Avoid continuous pressure on the same part of the body.

Make good use of pressure relief tools. Use professional air mattresses, foam pads, or gel pads on the contact surface of the bed and chair. They can effectively disperse pressure and create breathing space for the skin.

Keep it dry and clean. Sweat and urine stimulation are the accomplices of pressure sores. Check the skin of bony protrusions (sacrum, heels, hips) every day, clean it in time, and gently dry it.

(3) Moisture-related skin damage :

The perineum and skin folds are easily damaged due to long-term moisture infiltration:

Timely cleaning + gentle care is essential. Use a weak acid or neutral cleaning solution to rinse gently, and completely avoid alkaline and irritating products. Make sure the skin is completely dry after cleaning. Use soft, non-irritating disposable wipes or pure cotton cloth as cleaning tools. Be gentle and avoid rubbing hard. For the perineum, gently spread the wrinkled skin to ensure that the hidden area is thoroughly cleaned and no residual irritants are left.

(4) Dry skin: Moisturizing is the best solution

Sebaceous gland atrophy causes the skin in the elderly to become generally dry and tight:

Regular use of moisturizer every day is the basis, especially after bathing when the skin is slightly damp, for the best effect. For severe dryness, you can choose liquid dressings containing fatty acid peroxide to deeply nourish and repair.

Adjust your lifestyle habits: reduce the time of washing with hot water; avoid spicy and irritating foods; eat more fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins.

When it itches, avoid scratching hard to prevent ulceration and infection. You can gently pat or apply a cold compress to relieve it, and keep applying moisturizer.

Understanding your own skin characteristics is the first step for the elderly to actively prevent damage. Daily careful protection, correct cleaning and moisturizing, and reasonable use of support tools can greatly reduce the risk of skin problems at the source. Once damage occurs, scientific identification of the type and early adoption of the corresponding care measures in the article can promote healing and make the elderly life more comfortable and peaceful. As time goes by, gentle protection can make this last barrier of life still tough and shiny. For more information on Innomed®Silicone Contact Layer, refer to the Previous Articles. If you have customized needs, you are welcome to contact us; You Wholeheartedly. At longterm medical, we transform this data by Innovating and Developing Products that Make Life easier for those who need loving care.

Editor: kiki Jia