What
occurs with normal aging? |
What
are the results of normal aging? |
What
can I do to help? |
When
do I call? |
Loss of fat in the lowest layer of
skin reduces the ability to insulate the body from heat
loss. The fat also provides plumpness to the skin. |
Body temperature is more likely to
change according to the environment.
Skin appears wrinkled.
|
Offer a light sweater or jacket on
even if it seems warm to you. |
A sudden or unexpected
change in body temperature should be investigated. |
Reduced amounts
of constituents of the skin such as collagen, elastin,
and cells that produce supportive proteins. |
Skin sags with gravity,
tears easily and thins. |
Be cautious with
bandaids and sticky tape. Don’t pull clothing
over the surface of the skin. |
Report
skin tears that don’t heal within a reasonable
time.
|
Decreased sweat and oil glands. |
Decreased sweating and poorly regulated
temperature with dry skin and itchiness. |
Weekly showers and shampoos with tepid
water rather than frequent hot baths. Frequent use of
emollient lotions.
|
Seek assistance if
the itchiness gets worse or if rashes or open areas
accompany it. |
Decreased numbers
of cells that produce colouration of skin and hair and
protect the skin from the UV rays of the sun |
Grey hair, patchy skin colour.
A variety of skin lesions particularly on sun exposed
skin.
|
Reduce exposure to sun and use a recommended sunscreen.
Be aware of the warnings from the Canadian Cancer
Society. www.cancer.ca
|
Report
any new or changed skin lesions, particularly those
that appear on sun-exposed skin, bleed, hurt or do not
heal. |
Slower rate of growth of hair and
nails. |
Thin hair and thick, brittle nails. |
Take daily care of feet and nails.
Seek assistance with foot care if required. |
Report infections or
lesions that do not heal. |
| Less Vitamin D production. |
May be Vitamin D deficient |
Ask about vitamin D supplementation
and recommendations about sun exposure. www.cancer.ca |
Report
any supplements or herbal remedies. |
