Skin is the first part of the body to show the signs of ageing, which can include thinning, sagging, wrinkling, the appearance of age spots, broken blood vessels and areas of dryness. Unhealthy skin changes, such as skin cancer, are also more common as we age.

As well as the signs of skin ageing, adults with CP can be affected by skin irritation caused by friction, pressure and moisture issues. This may be due to repeated physical movement, chafing from specialised or assistive equipment, or spasticity. If skin irritation is left untreated, it can lead to rashes, infections and other issues.

Skin conditions can also be caused by:

• immobility
• poor nutrition
• incontinence
• some medications
• dehydration
• loss of sensation.

If you have reduced mobility, it is essential to watch for signs of pressure injury, which is caused by constant pressure or friction. Warning signs include skin redness, discolouration, and broken or swollen skin.

To help prevent pressure injury, you can:

• check your skin daily to look for early warning signs
• maintain good blood circulation by reducing the amount of time that pressure is applied to your skin
• use good-quality equipment and assistive technology correctly as instructed by therapists
• develop a plan to make sure you get regular position changes during the day and night. Ask for advice from a physiotherapist or occupational therapist
• maintain a daily skin-care routine to make sure your skin is well moisturised.

As you age, it is important to have regular skin checks, and if you are concerned about your skin health at any time, talk to your healthcare team as soon as possible about getting an assessment, treatment or advice.

Treatment will depend on what type of skin condition you have. It can range from antibiotics to prescription-based topical medications that are applied directly to the skin, such as ointments or creams. You may be prescribed over-the-counter medication if the issue is mild, or for more serious conditions, you may be referred to a dermatologist.

Limiting sun exposure and using sunscreen, having a nutritious diet, and good, gentle skin care using low-irritant products can all help to reduce the signs of skin ageing.

To lower your chance of developing skin infections, make sure you wash your hands often, especially after coughing, sneezing, using the bathroom, and before and after meals. This is equally important in different settings, such as work or social occasions.

Bathing regularly and moisturising your skin afterwards is also important, particularly if you wear incontinence products.

Have your clothes, bedsheets and blankets washed often, and if you use assistive technology, clean and dry it regularly, and make sure it fits correctly.

Some of this information is provided and produced courtesy of The Future Thinking Project, Ability WA.