Treat your skin well in winter

As we age, our skin transforms from being elastic and plump to sagging and thin. As well, senior skin produces less oil, becoming dry, itchy and flaky. Sorry, that's the reality, but you can make your skin feel better with moisturizing and, again, hydrating by drinking lots of water.

We also get pesky dry spots all over our bodies that itch and when we scratch too much it bleeds. Best to avoid that.

Consult a doctor for any unusual or persistent skin conditions, as they are common in older adults and could be related to an underlying illness like diabetes, heart disease, or nutritional deficiencies. 

Be aware of any pressure sores, painful open sores, caused by lying in one position for a long time. Changing positions and using lambswool because its natural fibers distribute pressure, wick moisture, reduce friction, and provide a breathable surface, which helps prevent skin breakdown.

For those who tend to be incontinent, use a protective ointment like Vaseline petroleum jelly with cocoa butter, or my old favorite Bag Balm, developed by a Vermont pharmacist to cure cow's dried and cracked udders. I figure if it's good enough for a cow it's good enough for me. In fact, I did use it when I was breastfeeding my son. Now I use it in the winter for cracked dry feet, applying it after a shower and leaving socks on overnight.

Make your own body butter

You could use some fancy creams that cost a lot of money, but this recipe has kept my skin nice and soft for years. Apply it all over and under.

Body butter recipe

1/2 cup shea butter

20-30 drops of essential oil

1/2 cup olive or sweet almond oil

1/2 cup cocoa butter

1/2 cup refined coconut oil

Combine shea butter, cocoa butter, olive oil, and coconut oil in a glass bowl. Heat in a pan on low. Once all of the ingredients are melted and combined, stir and remove from heat.

Allow to cool for a few minutes, then place in the freezer, checking every 30 minutes because you don't want it to completely freeze. Just harden it up enough so you can stick your finger in and it holds its shape.

Add the mixture to the mixer and add an essential oil scent of your choice. I use almond, but there's a wide range of scents to choose from. Whip for about 10 minutes to a smooth, whipped consistency. Store in a glass or plastic jar with a lid.

Ingredients can be found in your local health food store, with olive oil, almond oil and unrefined coconut also in places like Fred Meyer's.

I am sharing with readers what I have observed in the decades caring for seniors and observing their good and bad habits, which have guided my aging journey. I was also a volunteer EMT1 in Skagway.