Older adults are more susceptible to skin conditions as they age, which is why they need to practice good skin care. Healthy skin care habits can also boost confidence and lower the risk of isolation. Below are some tips aging adults can use to maintain healthy skin.
Moisturize
Using creams, lotions, and other moisturizers can prevent itching and scratching and reduce the risk of rashes. Applying these products can hydrate the deep layers of the skin and keep it looking smooth and refreshed. Speak with your senior loved one’s doctor to get a list of approved moisturizing products. For example, some creams are specifically for dry skin, while other lotions focus on hydration, firmness, and elasticity.
Seniors with mobility limitations or serious health issues may find it difficult to care for their skin properly. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care service families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Wear Protective Clothes
Clothing and accessories do more than help people look great. They also protect against sun damage and conditions like skin cancer. Your loved one should wear clothing made of fabric that’s difficult for UV radiation to penetrate. He or she should also avoid wearing tight-fitting pants, socks, and shirts because these items stretch more, pull away from the body, and allow ultraviolet light to pass through.
Take Up Healthy Eating Habits
Some of the foods your parent eats could increase collagen production and enhance his or her skin’s appearance. For example, if your loved one eats fatty fish instead of pork and other unhealthy meats, he or she could consume more substantial amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and healthy oils, which can keep his or her skin looking smooth.
A home caregiver can help your loved one plan and prepare meals with all the essential nutrients. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of elderly home care. Reston seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable caregivers.
Stop Smoking
The nicotine found in most cigarettes can cause blood vessels to narrow. When this happens, there’s less blood flow, and tissues don’t receive the oxygen and nutrients they need. Continuing to smoke puts your loved one at higher risk for sagging skin and wrinkles. Promote healthy habits your loved one can use to curb the desire to smoke, such as exercising, engaging in social activities, doing arts and crafts, and joining a support group.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water each day could help your parent combat a variety of skin problems, such as eczema and psoriasis. Consuming adequate amounts of water helps the digestive system flush out toxins, which enhances skin health. Encourage your loved one to drink at least eight glasses of water each day and avoid unhealthy beverages like sodas and energy drinks.
Visit the Doctor Regularly
Each time your loved one visits his or her primary care physician, the doctor will examine him or her to identify early signs of health issues. Your parent’s primary care physician can do a skin check and look for moles, freckles, and unusual marks. The doctor may also test for cancer or recommend that your loved one see a dermatologist. Help your parent schedule regular doctor visits, and commit to attending these appointments with him or her.
Skin care is just one of the many everyday tasks that can be challenging for some seniors. If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care Reston, a trusted provider of Reston senior home care. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping. Give us a call today at 703-556-8983 to learn about our flexible in-home care plans.