October 24, 2020

As people age, they experience a vast array of changes both inside and out, including skin that easily bruises. Bruises, which are also known as contusions, happen when the tiny blood vessels beneath the skin are ruptured or damaged from trauma.  Elderly bruising is a common symptom of thinning skin and fragile blood vessels. Unfortunately, bruising may happen from the gentlest incident, such as when assisting them in and out of the shower or if they slightly bump into a door handle. Although bruising can happen for a number of reasons, the most common causes for bruising in the elderly are the result of a fall, medical condition, or possibly even abuse.

Elderly People and Fragile Skin

As people age the division of skin cells slows down, which causes the skin to become thinner over time and the thinner skin tends to retain less moisture and causes loss of elasticity. These issues make it more difficult for the skin to repair itself as well as slow down the healing of wounds. Another problem is that as people age they lose subcutaneous fat, which helps to protect and cushion blood vessels, making it easier for bruising to occur, especially in the hands and arms.

What is Senile Purpura?

Senile purpura, sometimes called actinic purpura, is a form of bruising in seniors that isn’t the result of a trauma, but appears as if a serious injury has occurred. Between sun exposure and thinning skin, the blood vessels may burst from something as minor as a handshake or slight bump. When the small blood vessels burst, it causes the vessel to bleed under the skin, which causes significant marks on a senior’s fragile skin. This type of bruising doesn’t typically require any medical treatment and it may take as long as 3 weeks to a month to completely fade.

Unexplained Bruising

Bruising that cannot be explained or large amounts of bruising should not be ignored. Unexplained elderly bruising may be a warning sign of a serious, underlying medical condition or certain medications. Some common medications and medical conditions that may cause bruising include:

• Anemia, which is often the result of a change in diet
• Clotting disorders, such as deep vein thrombosis that is often the result of prolonged bed rest or sitting
• Liver disease may cause bruising because blood-clotting platelets are produced by the liver, so the disease may restrict the production
• Diabetes may cause bruising on the arms and legs
• Medications, such as anticoagulants and blood thinners often increase the risk of bruising and many, common over-the-counter medications, such as aspirin, cortisone, and ibuprofen increase the risk of bruising on various parts of the body

Bruising and Elder Abuse

Although bruising is often the result of something minor, such as the result of bumping into something, unfortunately, in some situations, excessive and frequent bruising may be a result of elder abuse. Elder abuse is negligent, knowing, and intentional actions of a caregiver or other person that causes harm to an elderly adult. It is critical to understand and determine whether or not elderly bruising is the result of elder abuse. Some common signs of elder abuse may include:

• Bruises that are 2 or more inches large
• Bruises that show finger marks
• Bruising that occurs in hidden areas of the body or in areas where they may be the result of grabbing or squeezing, such as around the wrist

Keep in mind that the majority of accidental bruising occurs on their extremities, not on the person’s head, neck, abdomen, or ribs. Also, in many situations, when bruising is the result of an accident, an elderly person may not remember how it was caused, but even those with cognitive impairment often recall bruising that occurred as a result of abusive behavior.

No one likes to think about it, but it is a fact that at some point all humans will die. It isn’t a fun thought, but it is something that you should think about in the present so your loved ones don’t have to be overwhelmed upon your passing. Use this list to get started in your preparations.

Determine Your Desires for Burial

Do you want to be buried or cremated? This can be a decision people don’t feel comfortable making for their loved ones, so it’s extremely helpful for you to simply tell them. You can speak with a company that deals with burial and cremation services Mechanicsville VA for help in the decision-making process. The company can also help you make any specific plans you have for your burial or cremation.

Make a Will

It’s crucial that you have a will in place at the time of your passing so your loved ones can know what you want done with your property and to help eliminate the likelihood of any disputes. Make sure you hire a lawyer to help with the process and ensure everything is legal. If you want to cut costs, though, there are online will sites that can help you plan it all clearly, just make sure you get the will notarized so it is legal.

Compile a List of Memberships and Accounts

Having a list of all of your memberships, passwords, and codes can be incredibly beneficial for your loved ones after you die. Instead of them having to wonder what your password to your bank information is, or being surprised by a letter from an alumni association, your family members can simply look at your list (virtual or printed) to see what accounts you may have open. Make sure you keep this list current!

As you age, it’s important to make sure you communicate what your desires are for burial, that you have a legal will, and that you have a clear list of all your memberships and accounts.