Aging of the United States population. The dermatologic implications

Clearly in the near and later future the older patient will augment significantly the burden of dermatologic disease and the consequent need for care. Increasing in numerical strength, those 65 years and older, carrying along the common problems prevalent in every adult age group, will, by living longer, have new problems related to wear, tear, and actinic exposure as well as pharmacologically induced problems arising from needed therapy for other conditions. The predictable challenge to our specialty is formidable.