Elder care and the dermatologic surgeon.
BACKGROUND
The elderly are an increasing percentage of the population and dermatologic surgeons will be caring for more senior citizens.


OBJECTIVE
Understanding issues in geriatric care will help both surgeons and patients have productive and rewarding encounters.


METHODS
Approaches to the care of elders are detailed in this article. Surgical tips for the senior patient are prescribed.


RESULTS
Older patients need more time and may need special assistance. Multiplicity of disease increases with age. A third-party interview can be helpful in gathering information. The elderly have sensory loss and benefit from extra attention, follow-up telephone calls, and therapeutic touch. Written handouts and instructions printed in large type are excellent. Dermatologic care should be kept as simple as possible with surgical closures designed to require minimal attention. Be cognizant of the social services available for the elderly and watch for dermatologic signs of internal disease. A skin care program for the elderly is helpful and cosmetic procedures are of interest to seniors.


CONCLUSIONS
Dermatologic surgeons can provide excellent care to elders. An understanding of gerontologic issues and surgical tips can help the dermatologic surgeon care for the older patient.
Flynn
T C
TC
Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112, USA. timothy.flynn@tulane.edu
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003142:Communication; D003880:Dermatology / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D005853:Geriatrics / Q000379:methods*; D006299:Health Services for the Aged; D006801:Humans; D008145:Louisiana; D008297:Male; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care