How common are skin disorders in the elderly population?

Survey studies have demonstrated that skin diseases are more common in the geriatric population than in the general population. One study revealed that 40% of Americans between the ages of 65 and 74 years had a cutaneous disease significant enough to warrant treatment by a physician. Patients older than 74 years are even more likely to develop significant skin diseases.

Beauregard SA, Gilchrest BA: Survey of skin problems and skin care regimens in the elderly, Arch Dermotol 123:1638–1643, 1987.