Aging certainly has its fair share of challenges. Cognitive decline, reduced mobility, problems with vision and hearing to name a few, and what is up with our skin? Our skin relies on us to make good choices in self-care and do what we can to avoid wounds. While we don’t love the look of skin gathering above our knees, the benefits we enjoy from this flexible, yet tough covering are more than vanity driven.
Healthy, intact skin is necessary to protect us from harmful substances, regulate temperature, and act as a sensory organ. Our body’s critical barrier becomes dryer and less elastic, increasingly thin and fragile as we age until this protective organ is at risk of breaking down. Skin integrity in older adults is part of getting older, but with an aggressive approach to geriatric wound care, we can avoid the dangers of chronic wounds, infections, and hospitalizations.
Are Wounds a Normal Part of Aging?
Wounds can be a normal part of aging for many reasons. As we get older, various changes in our body naturally occur that put our skin health in seniors at risk. From external factors to the food we consume, we can lower our risk by being aware of these changes and partnering with our Primary Care Provider to act quickly when wounds occur.
Changes with Aging
- Skin changes. Aging skin can bruise and tear more easily because it is thinner and has lost elasticity. Skin can be drier and take longer to regenerate after a wound.
- Blood vessels. Our vessels are more fragile, making bruising and bleeding more common.
- Fat layer. The fat layer under our skin thins with age, reducing protection to our veins and bones.
- Nerve endings. A reduction in nerve endings decreases pain sensation, which can increase the risk of injury.
- Underlying medical issues. Diabetes, vascular disease, and heart conditions increase the risk of wounds and slow healing.
- Medication. Many common prescriptions negatively affect wound healing in older people by reducing blood flow, blood cells, and organ functions critical to recovery.
Medications that Negatively Affect Wound Healing
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)
- Anticoagulants
- Immunosuppressants
- Corticosteroids
- Chemotherapeutic drugs
Other factors include:
- Falls. Increased falls due to decreased mobility, impaired balance, and muscle weakness can lead to broken bones and a long healing time for wounds.
- Poor nutrition. Older adults who make poor dietary choices or lack access to fresh foods are at higher risk for slow wound healing and infection.
So, while age-related changes are natural, some impacts can be minimized through a cooperative relationship with your Primary Care Provider. As you age, or care for an aging loved one, keep an eye out for common wounds in the elderly. Call your Mobile Medical Provider to refer you for an aggressive wound management plan as soon as possible if you experience any of these types of wounds.
Common Wounds in the Elderly
- Traumatic wound
- Pressure ulcer (bedsores)
- Vascular wound
- Burns
What is a Traumatic Wound?
A traumatic wound is an injury to the skin and underlying tissue that is typically defined as a cut, laceration, or puncture wound. It is often caused by a sudden force or impact, such as a fall, car accident, or other physical injury. Traumatic wounds can range from a simple cut to a life-threatening laceration or puncture wound.
Three Categories of Traumatic Wounds
- Acute wounds: skin is torn or ripped and contains foreign matter such as glass or gravel
- Traumatic cut wounds: sharp object penetrates the skin and tissue
- Penetrating wounds: caused by stabbing or gunshot; deepest and most severe
Traumatic wounds should be addressed by a medical provider immediately to reduce the risk of infection. For older adults with fragile skin, these injuries can be particularly serious. A mobile wound care provider who can create a treatment plan at home is an invaluable resource in any community.
Is There Effective Treatment for Pressure Ulcers?
Pressure ulcers in seniors, also called bedsores, result from sustained pressure on an area of the body. Bony areas such as the heels, ankles, hips, and tailbone are most at risk. Consistent pressure reduces blood flow, leading to tissue breakdown and visible wounds.
For seniors with reduced mobility, prolonged time in bed, a wheelchair, or recliner raises risk. Frequent position changes are the best prevention strategy. Treatment of pressure ulcers can be difficult—get immediate attention from a wound care specialist at the first sign of redness or swelling.
What is a Vascular Wound?
A vascular wound is a chronic skin sore caused by circulation problems. They can be dangerous and require medical attention to promote healing. Risk factors include:
- Age
- Previous leg injuries
- Varicose veins
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Other circulation disorders
Two Types of Vascular Wounds
- Arterial ulcers
- Venous ulcers
Treatment focuses on improving blood circulation, preventing infection, and addressing the underlying health conditions. Routine visits from a mobile wound care provider can reduce risk and promote healing.
Burn Injuries are Common in Older Adults
In the U.S., older adults account for nearly 20% of burn injuries. Seniors are at higher risk due to smoking, limited mobility, slower reaction times, and sensory or cognitive impairment. Unfortunately, outcomes are often worse for adults over 75.
Most burns occur at home—in the kitchen or bathroom. Flame and scalds, especially from hot water, are the most common. Seniors may suffer severe burns simply from taking a shower with water that is too hot.
How to Avoid Scalding Injuries in a Shower
- Check the water temperature regularly
- Install safety features such as grab bars, non-skid strips, and a detachable showerhead
- Consider a walk-in shower or tub
Make Proper Wound Care Your Top Priority
Wound care for elderly patients is critical. Beyond the physical pain, infections can destabilize overall health. From the first visit, wound care specialists provide reassurance that healing can begin for body, mind, and spirit.
The most effective call you can make for wound care is to a specialist who collaborates with primary care. And when both make house calls to maximize your time and keep you out of waiting rooms—that’s a bonus! Modern mobile medical services bring the care team directly to the patient, helping treat existing conditions and reduce future risks.
Collaborative treatment and effective healing strategies are two reasons Mobile Medical Services are a Resource We Love. Read more about the providers who are bringing care to you in the Resources Section of our Blog.