Anatomy and physiology of ageing 11: the skin

This article has been double-blind peer reviewed

In this article…

• Age-related changes in the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis

• Features of older skin and skin conditions that are common in old age

• Considerations for skin assessment and skin care in older people

Author Yamni Nigam is associate professor in biomedical science; John Knight is senior lecturer in biomedical science; both at the College of Human Health and Science, Swansea University.

Abstract The skin, the largest organ in the human body, performs important functions such as thermoregulation, storage and synthesis, sensation and protection. With advancing age, these functions are increasingly impaired. Changes occur in the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis leading to thin, dry and sagging skin, while loss of structure and integrity diminishes the skin's ability to protect the body and detect changes in temperature and pressure. Ageing skin is more prone to infection, trauma, tears and pressure ulcers. This is the last article in our series on the anatomy and physiology of ageing.

Citation Nigam Y, Knight J (2017) Anatomy and physiology of ageing 11: the skin. Nursing Times; 113: 12, 51-55.