Chapter 4

Functions of the Skin

Protects from infection and water loss, senses touch, temperature, and pain, helps regulate body temperature, keeps skin moist, and is the largest sense organ.

Aging Effects on Skin

Skin becomes thinner, drier, more fragile, less elastic, with a reduced fat layer leading to increased sensitivity to cold.

Sebaceous Glands

Glands that keep the skin moist by producing oil.

Nail Changes with Aging

Nails become hard and brittle as a person ages.

How to Care for Aging Skin

Bathe less often, use lotion, be gentle to avoid skin tears, keep residents warm, distribute oils by brushing hair, keep nails short and smooth, and encourage fluid intake.

Signs to Report in Skin Care

Pale, white, red, or purple skin, blisters, bruises, tingling or burning sensations, dry or itchy skin, rashes, discoloration, swelling, cuts, wounds, boils, or fluid from the skin.

Skin Temperature Regulation

Blood vessels dilate to cool the body and constrict to retain heat.

Skin Aging Symptoms

Thinner skin, reduced elasticity, decreased fat layer leading to feeling colder, thinning gray hair, and dry, itchy skin.

Fluid Encouragement

Encouraging residents to drink fluids can help maintain skin health.

Gentle Skin Care

To prevent tearing of the skin, caregivers should be gentle when handling the skin of elderly residents.