The cold winter months of this season can be especially harmful to the skin. Our skin becomes red, itchy and cracked due to excessive dryness. For elderly adults, the effects are more critical as the skin is thinner and more sensitive. Here are some simple ways to keep your elderly loved one’s skin healthy during the cold weather:
- Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. The key thing is to moisturize the skin daily, especially after bathing while the skin is still damp. Look for a thick cream, preferably something that is oil-based and contains glycerine. Pay close attention to your hands and feet, as those take the most damage.
Get clean, but not too clean. Elderly skin is fragile – there’s no need to bathe every day, so the shorter the shower, the better it is for the skin. Try to keep the showers/baths at no more than 15 minutes. You can even use a no-rinse cleanser to keep the skin fresh and clean. - Be gentle to the skin. Hot water washes always all the natural oils of the skin, making it even more dry. Make sure to use mild soap and warm water when bathing. Avoid using bath sponges or scrub brushes. Pat the skin dry (do NOT rub!) with a towel or washcloth.
- Heal cracked skin with an ointment. If your elderly loved one’s skin is already cracked and worn, try a moisture barrier. Calmoseptine is a popular multi-purpose cream that helps protect and heal skin breakdown. The formula is thick and soothing, which also makes it great for treating bed sores and diaper rashes and relieving that winter itch.
- Increase the humidity in the home. The heating system is great for keeping you warm and toasty during the cold winter, but it also dries out the skin. Use a humidifier at night to bring some moisture into the home and into your loved one’s skin.
Elderly adults are more susceptible to damaged skin and skin infection. These simple skin care tips can help you keep your loved one’s skin well-hydrated and smooth all winter.
