Seborrheic dermatitis is a very common skin condition in seniors and babies. In babies, it is sometimes called “cradle cap.” However, a large number of seniors over the age of 65 also get it.
If your mom or dad has seborrheic dermatitis, they may have symptoms like eczema, greasy scalp, dry scalp, dandruff, redness, and hair loss. If your senior parent is showing any of these symptoms, they need to see a dermatologist to get diagnosed and see if medication is right for them.
But there are also some things that your mom or dad can do at home to manage the annoying symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis and prevent infection. Getting personal care at home is a good place to start. It’s very important for seniors with seborrheic dermatitis to keep their hair and scalp clean and to wash their hair often.
Seniors may struggle to shower or wash their hair because of physical limitations. Personal care at home providers can help seniors shower and do these things to manage dermatitis:
Maintain Good Hygiene
With help from personal care at home professionals, seniors should wash affected areas regularly with a gentle, non-irritating shampoo or soap. Medicated shampoos containing ingredients like ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or zinc pyrithione can be helpful for the scalp.
It’s important that your mom or dad doesn’t use products that contain alcohol or harsh chemicals. They can cause irritation and make the symptoms worse.
Moisturize Regularly
Seniors should also apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep their skin hydrated. The best products are fragrance-free and formulated for sensitive skin.
Natural oils like coconut oil or olive oil can moisturize the scalp and other affected areas. Apply the oil, leave it on for a few hours, and then wash it off with a gentle shampoo. Personal care at home providers can be a big help when it comes to moisturizing safely.
Manage Stress
Stress can be a factor in how severe the symptoms of dermatitis are. Talk to your mom or dad about trying stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises. It’s also important for your mom or dad to eat a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, all of which contribute to overall well-being and stress management.
The Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Eating anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce the symptoms associated with dermatitis. Talk to your senior parent about eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds. Foods that have a lot of antioxidants such as berries, leafy greens, and nuts, and probiotics like yogurt can also reduce inflammation.
Use Prescription Treatments
The dermatologist may prescribe medicated creams or topical treatments like anti-fungal creams that contain clotrimazole or miconazole. These should be applied exactly as prescribed with the help of personal care at home providers. A dermatologist may also prescribe topical steroids during flareups, or medicated shampoo.
If any of these prescription medications cause the symptoms to worsen or cause side effects, let the dermatologist know immediately.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Personal Care at Home in Cary, NC, please contact the caring staff at Affordable Family Care.
Serving Raleigh, Greensboro, and the surrounding areas in North Carolina. Call today at (919) 676-1070
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