Changes in Skin Sensitivity
With advanced age, the skin becomes somewhat less sensitive to sensation, including heat, cold, and injury. While this is relatively unimportant for most people, it can pose a serious threat for those whose insensitivity is extreme.
Perhaps more important, however, is the recognition that touch is one of our most important senses all through life. It serves many important functions such as:
- forming a sense of self
- relieving stress
- giving comfort
- maintaining intimacy
- conveying acceptance
- attached/connected
Because older adults typically have less opportunity to give and receive touch, they may lose the benefits that these functions impart. This is also the case for persons with disabilities regardless of age.
Uatpat.org - The Utah Assistive Technology Program is designed to help you know what assistive technology is available, how to get funding for assistive technology, and to provide you with links and resources.