The role of skin assessment in older people

Understanding what to look for, what is normal and what needs to be referred to a specialist, gives community nurses confidence in assessing older skin. Skin health checks should become a normal part of health surveillance in primary care. This article reviews some of the most common changes that occur as skin ages, drawing attention to features that indicate possible malignancy as well as briefly indicating some common changes due to dry skin and disease processes. The principles of sun protection, including some helpful products, and skin treatment to aid hydration and maintain health are discussed.