Information Regarding Psoriasis That You May Need to Know
Psoriasis might not seem like that big of a deal to those who don’t have it. However, if your elderly loved one has psoriasis, it is important for you and their elder care providers to learn more about it. This is a chronic condition that causes skin cells to grow faster than normal. This can lead to scaly, red skin. Many people who have this condition say their skin is extremely itchy, sensitive, or even painful. There isn’t a cure currently for psoriasis. However, there are treatments that might help your elderly loved one if they have psoriasis. It is important to keep in mind there are different types of psoriasis, as well.
Psoriasis Effects
Elder Care Northbrook, IL: Psoriasis and Seniors
You might think that psoriasis only causes skin breakouts. However, this condition affects your elderly loved one’s looks, beauty, body, mental health, and much more. Many senior citizens who have psoriasis experience depression and extreme sadness as a result of this condition.
It is important for you and the elder care providers to treat your elderly loved one’s condition seriously. It affects every aspect of their healthy – psychologically, physically, and mentally.
In Depth Skin Effects
The first thing that might be noticed about psoriasis is that it affects the skin. Usually, this condition arises as red patches on the skin. The skin might even look scaly. However, this isn’t the case for everyone who has psoriasis. Your elderly loved one might also feel like their skin is burning or itching severely. They might have psoriasis on their scalp, torso, elbows, or knees.
There are other kinds of psoriasis. These types of might cause sore areas around the feet, face, genitals, palms, fingernails, or mouth. If your elderly loved one is having any symptoms of psoriasis, be sure to get them a doctor’s appointment to talk about treatments.
In Depth Personal Appearance/Beauty Effects
Your elderly loved one might feel their beauty is being affected by their condition. This is just as important, if not more important, to your elderly loved one than the effects to their skin. If your elderly loved one’s condition is severe, they might not want to be around you or their elder care providers. They might feel bad about how they look. You might notice that your elderly loved one is wearing heavy clothing (that isn’t suitable to the weather), so they can hide their skin. If this is the case, talk to them about it. Let them know you understand and you just want to help.
In Depth Anxiety and Depression Effects
Psoriasis can significantly affect your elderly loved one’s mental health. It can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and other mental health symptoms. Your elderly loved one might avoid going to social events. They might isolate, as well. If your elderly loved one seems anxious or depressed and they have psoriasis, see what help they are willing to receive. They might need therapy, support groups, or other forms of help.
Conclusion
This is some of the information regarding psoriasis that you may need to know. If your elderly loved one has this condition, be sure to support them and help them get the treatment needed.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Elder Care in Northbrook, IL, contact the caring staff at Companion Services of America today at (847) 943-3786. Our home care service area includes Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Des Plaines, Skokie, Lake Forest, Wilmette and the surrounding areas.
Sources
https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/psoriasis
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