Causes And Prevention Of Bruising In Seniors

Assisted Living Homes

We experience physical changes inside and outside as we age. Aging skin can be bruised easily which can occur when trauma ruptures or damages tiny blood vessels under the skin. Bruising in seniors can be caused by a collision, injury, or fall.

Why Skin Of Seniors Is Easily Bruised? 

In seniors, skin cells will grow and divide more slowly, resulting in thinning of the skin. Exposure to sun, aging, genetics, etc play a role in skin thinning. Moreover, in seniors, the skin will retain less moisture and will easily lose its elasticity. Its self-repairing ability decreases, thereby increasing the healing time of any wound.

Senile Purpura: A Harmless Type Of Skin Bruising In Seniors 

Senile purpura is skin bruising that does not result from severe trauma. After so many years of sun exposure, the blood vessels of seniors can easily burst with a very small impact like a very light bump or a handshake. This can leave noticeable marks on the skin of seniors and this condition is called senile purpura. The bruises occur as a result of bleeding under the skin and it can take up to three weeks to fade away.

Treatment is not a mandate in the case of senile purpura. However, it may lead to psychological distress in seniors. As per the caregivers in assisted living homes and other senior assisted living facilities, many seniors complain about skin bruising. If your senior loved one is worried about senile purpura, reassure the person that it is quite normal and you may also suggest discussing the same at their next doctor’s visit.

Preventing Skin Bruising In Seniors

It is nearly impossible to fully forestall skin bruising in seniors. However, the below precautions can help cut down the risk of skin bruising in seniors.

• Create clear paths throughout the apartment or home of the senior person. Removing obstacles and furniture can decrease the chances of bums that can result in skin bruises.
• Modify the home of the senior person with grab bars to prevent falls. Also, using mobility devices like walkers and canes can help prevent falls in seniors.
• Make your senior loved one wear protective clothing to avoid sun exposure. Using sunscreen when outside can also help protect the skin of seniors from sun damage.
• Consult with the doctor of your senior loved one to find if vitamin deficiencies could be causing the skin of the person to be easily bruised.