Bruising is a common occurrence in older adults, often appearing more frequently and lasting longer than in younger individuals. As we age, our skin becomes thinner, and blood vessels become more fragile, making even minor bumps or pressure result in noticeable bruises. While occasional bruises on older people are usually harmless, frequent or unexplained bruises can sometimes signal an underlying health concern.
In this guide, we’ll explore the common causes of bruising in the elderly, when to seek medical attention, and practical ways to prevent bruising in everyday life.
What causes bruises?
Bruises occur when small blood vessels (capillaries) beneath the skin break due to an impact, pressure, or underlying condition. When this happens, blood leaks into the surrounding tissue, causing the skin to appear red, purple, or blue. Over time, as the body gradually reabsorbs the blood, the bruise changes colour and fades.
While bruising is most commonly caused by minor bumps or falls, factors such as ageing, medications, and certain health conditions can make some people more prone to bruising.
Why are older adults more prone to bruising?
As we age, our bodies undergo natural changes that make the skin and blood vessels more vulnerable to bruising. Elderly skin bruising is common due to the thinning of the skin and the weakening of blood vessels, making even minor bumps or pressure result in noticeable marks. Older adults often find that bruises appear more easily and take longer to heal.
This increased susceptibility is due to several key factors:
- Thinner skin – Aging reduces collagen and fat layers, making the skin more delicate and less able to cushion blood vessels from impact.
- Weaker blood vessels – Capillaries become more fragile over time, meaning they break more easily under minimal force.
- Slower healing process – The body’s ability to repair damaged tissue declines with age, causing bruises to last longer.
- Changes in circulation – Reduced blood flow can weaken skin integrity and delay the healing of bruises.
While these age-related changes are normal, excessive bruising in the elderly may indicate an underlying issue. Understanding the causes can help caregivers and family members take proactive steps to prevent injuries and maintain overall health.
What causes bruises in the elderly?
The causes of bruising easily range from everyday minor bumps to underlying health concerns. Understanding these causes can help caregivers and family members take preventive measures to minimise injury risks.
- Minor injuries and everyday bumps – Thinner skin and weaker blood vessels mean that even small impacts, such as bumping into furniture or carrying heavy bags, can cause noticeable bruising.
- Medication side effects – Blood thinners, aspirin, steroids, and certain anti-inflammatory drugs reduce the body’s clotting ability, making bruises more frequent and severe.
- Underlying health conditions – Conditions such as diabetes, clotting disorders, liver disease, and autoimmune diseases can contribute to excessive bruising.
- Vitamin deficiencies – Low levels of vitamin C, vitamin K, or iron can affect blood clotting and skin health, increasing bruising risk.
- Poor circulation – Reduced blood flow to the skin can weaken capillaries and slow healing, leading to more persistent bruising.
- Lifestyle factors – Dehydration, poor nutrition, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can weaken skin and blood vessel health, making bruising more likely.
While occasional bruising is normal, frequent or unexplained bruising may signal a deeper issue. Recognising these common causes can help older adults and caregivers take steps to protect skin health and prevent unnecessary injuries.
When should I worry about a bruise on an elderly person?
While occasional bruising is normal, frequent, severe, or unexplained bruises may indicate an underlying health concern. Knowing when to seek medical advice can help prevent serious complications and ensure proper care:
- Excessive or unexplained bruising – Bruises appearing without any known cause or developing too frequently could be a sign of a medical condition or side effects from medication.
- Bruises that don’t heal properly – If a bruise lasts longer than two weeks, becomes swollen, or worsens over time, it may need medical attention.
- Bruising in unusual places – Bruises on the face, back, hands, or areas not commonly prone to injury could indicate an underlying issue.
- Other symptoms alongside bruising – Persistent fatigue, dizziness, nosebleeds, or frequent infections may suggest a clotting disorder or vitamin deficiency.
- Easy bleeding or prolonged bleeding – If minor cuts bleed excessively or bruises appear after minimal pressure, it could be a sign of a blood clotting disorder.
Preventing bruising in older adults
While some bruising is unavoidable, there are steps older adults and caregivers can take to reduce the risk and keep skin healthier. Simple lifestyle changes and home adjustments can make a big difference in preventing unnecessary bruises, such as:
- Make the home safer – Remove tripping hazards, install grab bars in bathrooms, and ensure good lighting to prevent falls and bumps.
- Wear protective clothing – Long sleeves, soft fabrics, and padded shoes can help minimise skin injuries.
- Maintain a nutrient-rich diet – Eating foods rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and iron supports skin and blood vessel health.
- Stay hydrated – Proper hydration keeps skin more resilient and less prone to damage.
- Use skin moisturisers – Hydrated skin is more flexible and less likely to tear or bruise easily.
- Manage medications carefully – Consult a doctor about the side effects of blood thinners or other medications that may contribute to bruising.
- Encourage gentle movement – Regular, light exercise improves circulation and strengthens muscles, reducing the risk of falls.
How caregivers can help
Caregivers play a crucial role in helping older adults prevent and manage bruising. By providing support, monitoring health changes, and creating a safe environment, they can significantly reduce the risk of injury and improve overall well-being.
At Prestige Nursing & Care, our fully trained home carers can help reduce the risk of bruising by:
- Monitoring for unusual bruising – Keep track of new or worsening bruises and report any concerns to a healthcare provider.
- Encouraging a healthy diet – Provide nutrient-rich meals with vitamins C and K to support skin and blood vessel health.
- Assisting with mobility – Help with walking, transfers, and daily activities to prevent falls and injuries.
- Promoting hydration and skin care – Encourage drinking plenty of water and applying moisturisers to keep skin healthy and resilient.
- Ensuring a safe home environment – Remove hazards, provide proper lighting, and encourage the use of protective clothing to minimise bumps and falls.
- Communicating with healthcare providers – Discuss any medication side effects or health concerns that may contribute to excessive bruising.
A helping hand at home
For 80 years, Prestige Nursing & Care has been trusted by our clients and their families to provide competent and compassionate home care. Our care is focused on improving health and overall well-being, and all in the place people love most – their own homes.
Call us on 0808 239 1525 and our friendly care experts will discuss your care and support needs. You can also fill out our online enquiry form or email info@prestige-nursing.co.uk. We provide impartial guidance and advice so you make the right choice for you and your family.
