A review of skin and the effects of aging on skin structure and function.

As the most visible and vulnerable organ of the human body, the skin is anatomically and functionally affected by aging. Maintaining skin integrity starts with understanding skin anatomy, physiology, and function and recognizing conditions as well as aspects of care that may affect structure and function. Research suggests that appropriate skin cleansing procedures and protection, as well as nutritional and environmental interventions, may help reduce some of the effects of aging and have positive psychological and health outcomes. Optimizing skin health in the elderly will help maintain its integrity and, as such, should be the first step in any wound prevention program.