Changes in the Nail Plate of the Elderly
September 1998
in “
Journal of The European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology
”
TLDR Old people's nails often have problems due to body changes, more diseases, and self-care difficulties, affecting their movement and hand use.
In the document from 1998, it was reported that abnormalities in the nails are very common in the elderly due to physiological changes, increased disease incidence, and difficulties with nail care stemming from infirmity. These problems can significantly affect mobility and fine motor skills, adding to the challenges of aging. Physiological changes in the nails of the elderly include variations in nail plate thickness, contour changes, and decreased growth rate, which may be linked to reduced local blood supply. The elderly also have a higher incidence of fungal infections that damage the nail plate, leading to discomfort and potential secondary bacterial infections. Additionally, benign and malignant tumors, such as myxoid cysts associated with arthritis in the distal interphalangeal joints, can alter the nail plate. These changes necessitate increased chiropody services and systemic therapy to maintain health and reduce secondary complications.
