in home care Kansas City MO - care for aging skin

As we get older, skin changes are not uncommon. The skin becomes thinner and drier, may develop wrinkles, creases, and age spots, and bruises easier. However, just a little extra TLC for aging skin can make a difference towards keeping it more attractive and healthy. Consider these tips to care for aging skin from the Hearts at Home senior care team:

  1. Change up the bathing regimen. Exchanging long, hot baths for a 10-minute shower or warm-water bath and replacing bar soap with a far more gentle cleanser are great places to begin when caring for aging skin. Encouraging older adults to make the switch from showering or bathing each day to every other day can further protect the skin. Seniors should also consistently follow up with a fragrance-free moisturizer; however, stay away from bath oils, which may raise the danger of a fall.
  2. Guard from the sun’s rays when outdoors. Spring is a popular opportunity to go outside with a senior loved one, but be sure to help protect his or her skin with sunscreen (at least SPF 30), seek out the shade, and provide a hat with an ample brim for added defense from the sun’s rays.
  3. Increase humidity when indoors. Dry air commonly brings about dry skin. When heating or air conditioning are operating in the house, utilize a humidifier too. Monitor humidity levels with a hydrometer (available at your local hardware or home improvement store), and strive for a reading of somewhere within 45 and 60%.
  4. Protect working hands. If a senior loved one enjoys assisting with household chores or gardening, be certain he/she wears gloves to safeguard the hands against any abrasive chemicals which can aggravate or hurt the skin.
  5. Check for skin cancer. Make sure an older adult goes to the dermatologist at least annually to be checked for skin cancer, as the risk increases as we age. In between appointments, examine any spots or moles on the skin regularly, and advise the dermatologist of any changes in color, size, or shape to pre-existing spots or moles. The doctor can also help develop an approach to address other skin conditions the senior is encountering. To locate a dermatologist locally, search the American Academy of Dermatology’s database.

At Hearts at Home In-Home Care, our knowledgeable home care team is highly trained in helping seniors maintain optimal health, from head to toe! Just a few of the many ways we’re able to help include:

  • Transportation and accompaniment to check-ups and medical procedures
  • Making sure that seniors stay hydrated
  • Cooking healthy, nutritious meals
  • Providing bathing/showering assistance
  • Helping with housework and laundry
  • Encouraging physical activity and exercise
  • Offering pleasant companionship
  • And much more

Get in touch with the Hearts at Home senior care team by calling 913-440-4209 any time to let us know how we can assist you. We offer compassionate, professional in-home care in Overland Park and the surrounding areas.