Impairments can be a normal part of getting older and the skin is not exempt
from being impaired; impaired skin integrity can be problematic because it
hinders one's ability to move, can be afflicted by unnecessary injury from
small interactions of skin to surfaces. Impairments that compromise the
integrity of an area, like the skin, or specific process can often leave an
individual more susceptible to illness and injury.
Some potential risk factors that can be attributed to the acquisition of
impaired skin integrity are: old age, poor circulation, immobility, exposure to
radiation, edema, hypothermia, and incontinence. All of these factors can put a
person at more of a risk of skin impairments, like that of impaired skin integrity.
Not many preventative measures can be taken in regards to this impairment,
instead the most common advice is to remain healthy and stay active. Impaired
skin integrity is a common affliction in order people and can be serious if
health and skin are not properly cared for.
