Skin care in the older person: identifying and managing eczema.

Eczema is a common skin condition in older people. Eczema is a long-term condition and older people may have had atopic eczema for many years; it may also be an acute condition, caused by a drug reaction. Many older people experience eczema and dermatitis for the first time as a consequence of ageing skin or triggered by environmental factors. Community nurses need to be able to assess older people's skin and recognize any signs and symptoms of eczema to ensure prompt treatment and good ongoing skin care.