Have you ever noticed that some older people have bruises on the arms or hands or both? It may look like they must be exceptionally clumsy and careless in bumping into furniture and the like, but that is far from the truth in many cases.
More than likely these bruises in elderly people are not normal bruising, and are not caused by bumping into tables, chairs or other things. As we get older the skin loses its elasticity and strength. It bruises, tears and cuts very easily. It is not sore, happens with the slightest bump or touch and therefore often goes un-noticed and therefore un-treated.
This bruising in elderly people can be really unsightly and cause grave concern to relatives and friends. The skin is often thin and damaged which is made worse with exposure to the sun.
Years of sun exposure can be the cause of damage to the three layers of skin that cover our bodies. Some medication can thin the blood, and things like Aspirin, alcohol, and steroids can aggravate the condition.
Medical Resources
If your parnents are elderly and suffering from bruised and damaged skin, we would encourage you to learn more about the most common skin issues among the elderly by visiting the resources below:
- Actinic Purpura– http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1087008-overview
- Solar Purpura– http://orlandoskindoc.com/solar_purpura.htm
- Bateman’s Purpura– http://www.skinsite.com/info_bateman_s_purpura.htm
- Actinic Keratosis– http://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/actinic-keratosis
There are creams on the market that may help and creams that contain Collagen can assist in strengthening the skin. Others may dissolve the scabs but if not used properly can thin the skin even more. It is advisable to keep the skin moisturised at all times.
But the best solution is to avoid the chance of sunburn altogether.
Cover Up
In the hot climate of South Africa it can be too hot and uncomfortable to wear a long sleeved top, so it may be necessary to look for other options.
Sun-Sleeves could well be the answer. They slip on easily, are cool to wear and can be taken off when needed, without having to change your top.
The fabric is CANSA approved and will protect not only from the sun, but also from bruising. If you do bump yourself, the bruising is minimised.
The sleeves can be worn wet and if you feel hot, just pull them down for a minute to cool off and pull them back up.
Remember that children from very young to about eighteen years of age are at the greatest risk of sun damage. Take care to protect them from this early age and you will find that their skin will be less prone to bruising and damage as they get older.
We would like to encourage you to explore the alternatives that are available. If you are not sure how to go about this or would like some guidance with regards to your unique circumstances, please contact us and we’ll be happy to share some more ideas with you.