Psoriasis is a skin condition that can develop at any age. Learning as much about the condition as possible is helpful for family caregivers and aging adults, and may make the condition a lot easier to manage, too. Having some extra help with skin care and hygiene issues from personal care at home providers can make the job even easier.
What Is Psoriasis?
There are eight different varieties of psoriasis, and they can affect just about every part of the body.
The most common form of psoriasis, plaque psoriasis, involves patches of thick areas of skin cells called plaques. These areas may itch or be uncomfortable, and the plaques can join together to form bigger areas.
Here are four other types:
Inverse psoriasis typically occurs in areas where skin folds touch, and the skin may look and feel raw.
Pustular psoriasis involves pus-filled bumps forming typically form on the extremities. The area is usually red and swollen, with small bumps.
Erythrodermic psoriasis is more common in seniors and involves chills, fever, muscle weakness, and severe itching. This form of psoriasis can be dangerous and requires immediate medical attention.
Guttate psoriasis may occur after an infection and is usually temporary, disappearing on its own. Psoriasis can also occur on the nails or in the joints, causing pain and discomfort.
Causes of Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, and scientists have found that it tends to occur when T cells, or T lymphocytes, begin to attack skin cells throughout the body. T cells are an essential part of the immune system, but when they attack skin cells, the body forms new skin cells faster than it should. There is some evidence of hereditary causation, but that isn’t true for everyone with psoriasis. Some other possible causes include skin injuries, stress, infections, weather, and some medications like prednisone or lithium.
Treating Psoriasis
Treating psoriasis may depend on the type of psoriasis seniors have and the other health issues they’re battling. There are topical ointments that can help, but sometimes seniors are more prone to allergic reactions to those medications. Light therapy can sometimes help, and there are medications that might be prescribed. Much of that depends on what other medications seniors are taking and their overall health.
Managing Daily Life with Psoriasis
Identifying triggers for psoriasis can really help, and home care providers can help seniors keep a log of how they’re feeling and what possibly caused their most recent psoriasis outbreaks. In terms of daily life and managing psoriasis, gentle cleansing and moisturizing with a fragrance-free moisturizer multiple times per day can help to cut down itching. Showering or bathing in lukewarm water can help the skin recover, and incorporating anti-inflammatory foods in their diets may also be a good idea. Personal care at home can help seniors to develop routines that soothe their psoriasis and help them feel their best.
Living with psoriasis doesn’t have to feel lonely for aging adults. With the help of personal care at home and a solid treatment plan, seniors can have a great quality of life.