As we get older, we may begin to notice there are more wrinkles and age spots than we remember. This could be a grueling reminder that we are no longer as young and vibrant as we once were. These skin changes are especially prevalent in older adults. There are a number of facial treatments that can be used to give elders a more youthful complexion, but those treatments often have a high price tag to go along with them.

However, by following these simple tips for healthy skin, your elderly loved one will be much more confident with their appearance.

Stay Safe in the Sun

Sun exposure can be extremely damaging to the health of your loved one’s skin. Frequent time spent outside without taking preventative measures against the sun’s harmful rays could increase their chances of developing age spots, wrinkles, and possibly skin cancer. Some things the elder can do to protect their skin includes:

• Stay indoors. Although the weather has started to cool off in most areas around the country, there are still several states that are dealing with humid, hot weather. If your elderly parent lives in one of these states, encourage them to stay inside during the hottest parts of the day, which are typically between 10 and 2.
• Wear sunscreen. It should have an SPF of at least 15.
• Wear the right clothing. Tightly woven long-sleeved shirts, a wide-brimmed hat, and long pants will keep your loved one’s skin from getting burned in the sun.

Avoid Smoking

The use of tobacco products can actually make the skin significantly age by adding more wrinkles to the skin and giving it an older appearance. Smoking can also cause the collagen and elastin to become damaged. Also, if the elder makes repetitive facial expressions when smoking, such as pursing their lips or squinting their eyes, these movements can also add more wrinkles to their face.

Gently Wash the Skin

Bath time is important in order to keep the senior’s body clean and free from infections. The following techniques will ensure that the senior’s skin does not become dry, irritated, or burned during their daily or nightly hygienic rituals.

• Take quick baths in warm, not hot, water
• Use mild soaps that will not strip away the natural oils in the skin
• Shave creams should be used when shaving in order to keep the skin moisturized and lubricated
• Pat the skin dry after a bath in order to help it retain moisture
• Moisturize after the bath with a moisturizer that contains SPF

Bath time can be difficult for many elders to do alone. A home care provider can assist your loved one with this task in order to make sure they stay safe and thoroughly clean their skin in the bathtub.

Source:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/skin-care/art-20048237

If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring Professional Non-Medical Home Health Care in Palm Beach Gardens FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff at Assisting Hands Home Care at (561) 566-5989 Today.