A nurse is teaching a class about expected changes to the skin in older adults. Which of the following information should the nurse include? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason: Older adults actually experience a decrease in vascularity and blood supply to the dermis. This reduction in blood flow contributes to delayed wound healing, impaired thermoregulation, and a paler skin tone. An increase in blood supply is not a physiological characteristic of the normal aging process of skin. Choice B reason: Aging leads to the atrophy of subcutaneous fat layers, particularly in the extremities. This decrease in subcutaneous tissue reduces the body's natural insulation and padding, making older adults more susceptible to hypothermia and increasing the risk of skin breakdown or pressure injuries over bony prominences during physical activity. Choice C reason: The epidermal and dermal layers undergo significant thinning as a result of decreased cell replacement and collagen degradation. This increase in skin thinning results in a fragile integumentary system, often described as paper-thin skin, which is highly prone to shearing forces, skin tears, and mechanical trauma. Choice D reason: There is a physiological decline in the function of sebaceous and eccrine glands in older adults, leading to reduced sebum production. This decrease in skin hydration causes the skin to become xerotic, scaly, and itchy, which compromises the skin's barrier function against environmental pathogens and irritants. Choice E reason: Skin elasticity significantly decreases with age due to the loss and fragmentation of elastin and collagen fibers within the dermal matrix. This leads to increased skin sagging and wrinkling. An increase in elasticity is associated with youth, whereas senescence is characterized by a loss of tensile strength