Home Care in Carmel, IN

Skin conditions are very common for seniors. Certain skin conditions come with aging but there are also other factors including diet, genetics, and sun exposure that can have an effect on the skin. Here are three different types of skin conditions that may affect seniors receiving in-home care and natural treatment options.

Rough or Dry Skin

Dry skin is mainly caused by the loss of oil glands as people age. These oil glands help keep the skin nice and soft so when they start to decrease, the condition of the skin begins to deteriorate. When the skin is dry it is normal for it to itch but it can also become cracked, especially the more it gets scratched. Some natural treatment options for seniors who suffer with rough or dry skin include:

• Instead of using lotion, try coconut oil instead
• Put honey directly on the skin then remove it with warm wash cloth after five minutes
• Add ground oatmeal to your bath water

Seniors with problematic dry skin should also bathe every other day instead of once a day and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Bruised Skin

Because blood vessels become more fragile as people age, it doesn’t take much for seniors to get a bruise. When seniors get a bruise they should apply a cold compress right away. This helps to decrease the amount of inflammation which keeps bruising to a minimum. For larger bruises on the leg or the foot, the leg should be elevated as much as possible. Here are some natural remedies seniors receiving elder care at home can try:

• Apply crushed parsley to the skin to make the bruise go away faster
• Apply macerated cabbage leaves to reduce the swelling
• Soak chamomile tea bags in warm water and then place them on the bruise to alleviate the pain

Certain medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatories can cause bruising. Seniors who bruise easily should try to avoid these types of medication. In order to help bruises heal more quickly, seniors can also be sure to get plenty of rest, limit alcohol consumption, and avoid pain killers.

Age Spots

These spots on the skin, also known as liver spots, can be caused when the body produces too much melanin. According to the Mayo Clinic, they develop because of the skin being exposed to ultraviolet light from the sun for many years. Most people who develop age spots are fair-skinned or have a history of sunburn. Some helpful treatments for age spots include:

• Rub castor oil on the spots twice a day
• Apply fresh lemon juice
• Get plenty of vitamin C

For those receiving senior care, it can be just as important to take care of the skin as well as the rest of the body.

The professionals at Great Care are available to talk with you and your family about all of your home care needs. Great Care is a non medical in-home care agency providing quality and affordable home care in Carmel, IN and the surrounding areas. Call (317) 595-9933 for more information.