Abstract
Aim: To explore the pattern of occurrence and characteristics of senile pruritus among elderly living in nursing homes in the Northern region of Denmark. Materials & methods: A Danish questionnaire was developed and distributed to six nursing homes from which 46 residents participated. Results: The prevalence of chronic itch was 28.9%. Evening?night and autumn?winter with an average daily itch of 30 min were reported. Itch interfered with night sleep and daily activities. Scratching was common with 61.5% accompanying scratch marks. Half of participants reported Xerosis. Cream, cold compress and cold shower were found to be the most effective remedies for itch relief. Conclusion: The present study revealed a high prevalence of chronic pruritus including cases of senile pruritus that needs further exploration for treatment or preventive strategies.
Original language | English |
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Article number | FSO399 |
Journal | Future Science OA |
Volume | 5 |
Issue number | 6 |
ISSN | 2056-5623 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2019 |
Keywords
- chronic itch
- elderly
- itch
- nursing home
- senile pruritus