Psoriasis in Seniors

By Jamie Shapiro | October 8, 2015 | Comments Off on Psoriasis in Seniors

Senior Care in Wilmette IL

Psoriasis is a chronic disease that develops when the immune system sends false signals telling skin cells to grow at a rapid pace, often in just days instead of weeks. According to the National Federation of Psoriasis Association, nearly 3 percent of the world’s population has psoriasis, which may cause painful, bleeding cracks in the skin and embarrassment over their noticeable shedding skin. Psoriasis is defined as a common, relapsing inflammatory disorder that primarily involves the skin. While predominately found in children, many adults have also been diagnosed with this skin condition. Because skin of the elderly is much thinner and the eccrine glands decrease, it tends to dry out much more than that of children and young adults. As the family caregiver of someone with psoriasis, familiarizing yourself with this condition will give you a better understanding of it and how it can be treated.

  • Learn about psoriasis: The first step in offering in-home care to a senior with this skin condition is to get educated. Knowing all of the facts will help you make informed decisions over how to care for and treat someone with psoriasis, while also learning what triggers may make it worse. Seek out support groups for more information both in your community and online.
  • Eat a healthy diet and exercise: Helping your loved one take care of themselves will improve the symptoms of this condition. A healthy diet, regularly exercising, and avoiding smoking and drinking will help. Keep in mind that people with this disease or more susceptible to other medical problems, such as heart disease and diabetes. If your loved one has not been taking good care of their health, it is not too late to start.
  • Recognize the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis: Sometimes psoriasis may lead to a more severe condition known as psoriatic arthritis. Some of the symptoms of this disease include stiff joints and if the nails begin to separate from the nail bed or develop ridges, pitting, or have turned an orange-yellow color. Take your loved one to a dermatologist immediately if these symptoms are present.
  • Watch for changes in their mood: Some common moods from people with psoriasis include depression, sadness, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. A support group or mental health professional will help treat these mood changes.
  • Learn about treatment options: While some people prefer not to treat this condition, there are options available to relieve the symptoms of this disease. It is important you and the loved one you are providing elder care for knows what treatments are available.
  • Talk to a dermatologist: A dermatologist will be able to answer any questions you and your loved one have. If they do prescribe a medication that does not seem to be helping your loved one, they should not completely stop taking it. Doing this may cause serious health consequences. Work with the dermatologist to find the right treatment option for your loved one.

 

If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care services in Wilmette, IL, contact the caring staff at Companion Services of America today at (847) 943-3786. Our home care service area includes Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Des Plaines, Skokie, Lake Forest, Wilmette and the surrounding areas.

 

Source
American Academy of Dermatology. “Psoriasis: Tips for managing.”

Jamie Shapiro
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