Aesthetic Medicine In The Golden Years

With the fastest growing age demographic in the developed world being age 65 and above, the older patient is thus a vital part of an aesthetics practice. DR DEBBIE NORVAL advises on how best to embark on a sensitive and age-appropriate aesthetics plan for the elderly patient.

- Dr Debbie Norval

It is a myth that older people don’t seek aesthetic treatments. In fact, healthy grooming is as important as healthy eating, regular exercise, social engagement and maintaining a keen mind. Looking their best promotes both physical and mental health, as well as a sense of self-worth, in the elderly – thereby reducing the feeling of being invisible, unimportant and undervalued. 

Modern society is obsessed with youth, beauty and achievement, with an increased focus on physical appearance as a vehicle for self-expression and identity. Youth is now valued more highly than age and life experience. This contrasts with the past where age and wisdom were revered, respected and admired. Nowadays, many regard the physical signs of ageing as a threat to self-continuity and a pathological condition. They react to ageing like it is a disease that needs to be cured – instead of a natural, normal and time-honoured part of life.

Treating the older patient 

Now, since the holistic aesthetic practice will have a growing number of older patients, it is essential for the aesthetic practitioner to have a sensitive and age-appropriate plan for the elderly. A thorough medical history is vital, as older patients have a more complicated medical history and a greater chance of chronic illnesses like hypertension, congestive cardiac failure and diabetes. A drug history is also important, as many will be on anticoagulants and other medications that might affect aesthetic treatments and outcomes, and increase side effects.