How to Treat Wounds in Aging Skin

Do you keep an eye on how your body is reacting skin wounds, especially the pace of healing?

As we grow older, we need to be more aware of these changes and learn how to prevent and properly treat skin injuries. Aging skin can become thinner and lose some of its strength and elasticity, increasing the potential risk of getting cut more easily and experiencing longer healing times.

“As people grow older, engaging in everyday tasks such as cooking, gardening, or fixing things around the house, can pose a greater risk of cuts, burns and open wounds,” says Kim Angelakis, National Director for Clinical Education & Research at We Care Home Health. “It’s not only the cut or burn itself that is of concern, but potential complications such as infections can arise, if not properly treated.”

What can you do to prevent and treat skin injury? Try these quick tips:

Prevention: The best advice is to take steps to prevent skin wounds. Dehydration increases the risk of skin injury, so eat healthy foods, drink plenty of liquid, and keep skin moist with natural lotions. Wear protective gloves and clothing when necessary.

Treat minor wounds: Aging skin may take up to four times longer to heal than younger skin. If you do experience a minor cut, tend to it quickly. Wash the area and use a small adhesive bandage – but try to leave the skin exposed to open air for as much time as possible to help the healing. Leaving a cut unattended increases the chances of germs multiplying and spreading under the skin, leading to possible infection. Using an antibacterial ointment such as Polysporin can help prevent infection and promote faster healing.

Treat severe wounds: It’s important to seek professional medical attention if you experience deep open wounds or severe burns. Medical stitches may be necessary and antibiotics are sometimes prescribed to prevent infection. Carefully follow your medical provider’s instructions for managing the wound as it heals.

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