Assessment of skin integrity in the elderly 1.

Intrinsic changes to the skin are a normal part of the ageing process. Careful assessment of the skin for any abnormalities should be included in any patients' holistic assessment. It is essential that all health care professionals have a fundamental knowledge of the structure and function of the skin in order to be able to assess any changes to normal skin; identify existing skin problems and potential risk factors. Only by carrying out a detailed and systematic examination, we can implement effective strategies of management. This is the first of two papers. This paper will describe the structure and functions of the skin and explore skin assessment. The second paper will describe some of the more common skin conditions seen in ageing skin and their management.