Skin diseases in geriatrics and their effect on the quality of life: A hospital-based observational study

BACKGROUND: World's population is aging at a very fast pace with 8.5% of current population being aged 65 years and above. Indian figures also reflect the exponential growth in number of older people. With advancing age a myriad of health-related problems arise. Due importance is given to diseases associated with high mortality such as malignancies, diabetes, and cardiovascular illness. However, skin diseases though being prevalent lack priority. This study is being conducted to identify the common geriatric dermatoses prevalent in sub-Himalayan region of Uttarakhand and also to assess their effect on the quality of life. AIMS: The aims of this study are to study the pattern and frequency of dermatoses in patients aged 60 years and above and to assess the effect of dermatoses on their quality of life. METHODS: In total, 117 patients aged 60 years and above presenting to Dermatology outpatient department were recruited from 1(st) August 2018 to 31(st) October 2018 after obtaining written informed consent. Socio-demographic details, presence of co-morbidities, and dermatological complaints were recorded on a data collection form. Skin diseases were categorized into seven categories for statistical analysis. For assessing the effect of dermatoses on the quality of life of participants, Dermatology Life Quality Index was administered. RESULTS: Out of 117 patients, two-thirds were males. Mean age of patients was 68.60 ± 7.011. Out of total, 40% patients had one or more comorbidity. Erythemato-squamous disorders were the commonest dermatoses seen in 40% patients. This was followed by infections and infestations (33.3%). In total, 17% patients had senile pruritus and age-related skin disorders. Around 16% reported moderate to large effect on their quality of life. CONCLUSION: Skin diseases are an important cause of psycho-social morbidity among geriatric population. Their special needs must be addressed by making appropriate changes in national health policies. It is imperative to include skin health as a component to assess the overall wellbeing of geriatrics.