Psoriasis in old age: Challenges and tips for those affected

The „golden years“ shouldideally be a time of enjoyment and relaxation. But what if you are surprised with psoriasis in your later years? We explain why psoriasis can indeed play a role in old age and what those affected can do about it.

Are older people more susceptible to psoriasis?

In general, the skin becomes thinner and more sensitive with age, which can actually make older people more susceptible to psoriasis. Additionally, the immune system's performance decreases after the age of 60 –no new T lymphocytes are produced, which makes older people more vulnerable to viruses and infections. The weakened immune system also means that existing psoriasis lesions are more difficult to treat and can spread more easily, especially when other conditions arise in the body concurrently.

Experiencing various side effects of aging is completely normal. However, complications arise when you are taking multiple different medications. Always discuss such a situation with your doctor to avoid interactions between the individual medications.

Challenges of psoriasis in old age

We have already mentioned the challenges that can arise in the treatment of psoriasis in old age. The factors that can lead to psoriasis are also the obstacles to consider in its care. People of older age often have more sensitive skin. This means that the skin could become dry or irritated due to certain treatments, such as steroids. In the best case, opt for moisturizing creams like Alnovat or consider light therapy. Another significant, invisible hurdle in treating psoriasis in old age is dealing with the psychological effects of the condition. The visible changes in the skin caused by severe psoriasis can lead to depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. While this side effect applies equally to young and old individuals, older people may also face loneliness due to aging, further isolating those affected.

What can I do myself, and how can I help those affected?

Psoriasis is not a disease that must be faced alone. If you are a family member observing your grandparent, for example, struggling with flare-ups, you can offer your support in simple ways.

Show empathy: People with psoriasis often feel stigmatized since their skin condition is usually visible. Therefore, it is important in the first step to show understanding to the affected individuals and not reject them

Offer support: Severe psoriasis flare-ups can be painful and significantly limit mobility, especially in old age. Therefore, always offer your time in everyday situations, whether it's helping with dressing or assisting with shopping.

Offer assistance in seeking medical care: Older people often feel overwhelmed when searching for suitable treatments and visiting doctors. A trusted person can work wonders in helping them overcome this fear

Education: Educate yourself about psoriasis, even if you are not affected –every person dealing with it will be grateful for sharing your knowledge.

Be a listening ear: Last but not least, it is incredibly important to give those affected the opportunity to talk about their worries and fears. Older people often isolate themselves naturally –regular visits bring positivity and optimism.

To all those affected, we want to say: Stay strong!You are not alone, and there are many ways to alleviate the symptoms and lead a fulfilling life in your later years. A holistic approach that includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, and the right therapy can help better manage psoriasis in old age. If you are unsure about the best treatment for you, always consult a trusted dermatologist. If you are still looking for a suitable therapy for the topical treatment of your psoriasis, Alnovat is particularly suitable for mild to moderate psoriasis due to its physical and natural active complex –regardless of age. We hope that this post has brought you some positivity, whether you are affected or a family member. Please feel free to share your experiences with Alnovat and let us know if you have any further questions