What skin issue are elderly patients more likely to experience?

Elderly patients are more likely to experience increased bruising due to a decrease in subcutaneous fat and changes in the skin's structure. As people age, the layers of fat beneath the skin thin out, which reduces the cushioning that protects blood vessels. This can lead to more frequent and pronounced bruises, even from minor bumps or injuries that might not have caused bruising in younger individuals.

Additionally, the skin’s elasticity and ability to regenerate diminish with age, leading to changes such as thinning skin, which further contributes to the ease with which bruises can form. It is important for dental nurses to recognize such changes, as they can impact a patient’s overall health management and treatment plans.

Other issues such as increased oil production or improved elasticity are less common in the elderly, as their skin generally becomes drier and loses elasticity with age. Increased sensitivity does occur but is generally more nuanced and can vary widely among individuals.