Why you should read this article:

• To understand the skin changes that occur as part of the ageing process

• To recognise the physical and psychosocial effects of age-related skin changes

• To enable you to promote the skin health of older people and provide advice about effective skin care practices

The skin is the largest organ of the body and provides protection for the vital organs, as well as having a significant role in processes such as temperature regulation. However, the ageing process involves degenerative changes such as reduced cell replacement and less efficient barrier function. These changes have physical and psychosocial consequences for older people such as increased susceptibility to skin damage and lowered self-esteem. This article details the age-associated changes that affect the skin, explores the self-reported skin concerns of older people living in the community, and examines the role of primary care nurses in promoting older people’s skin health.