Final answer:
Aging brings significant changes to skin properties, with a decrease in collagen production leading to thinner, less elastic skin that is prone to injury. The older adult's skin becomes more fragile, contrary to the claim that it becomes more resistant to mechanical trauma. Aging is marked by these decreased collagen levels and diminished elasticity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Effects of Aging on Collagen and Skin Properties
As we age, there are noticeable changes in skin properties, primarily due to the decrease in collagen content. Collagen, which is a key structural protein in connective tissues, provides strength and elasticity to the skin. However, with aging, collagen production diminishes, leading to thinner, less elastic skin that is more susceptible to tearing when subjected to mechanical trauma. This is contrary to the statement that collagen content increases with age. Additionally, the skin also experiences a decrease in elasticity, a phenomenon supported by the reduced production of both collagen and elastin in the dermis. Concurrently, there is an overall thinning of tissues, including muscle, contributing to the more fragile state of the skin in older adults.
Furthermore, the statement that the older adult's skin is resistant to mechanical trauma is inaccurate since it's quite the opposite; aging skin, with its decreased collagen and elasticity, is more prone to injury. This vulnerability to damage is reflected in the skin's slower wound healing capability, which is a consequence of diminished regenerative capacity in the dermal layer.
It is therefore clear that aging skin is characterized by decreased collagen, reduced elasticity, and increased fragility, which underline the importance of gentle care and protective measures for maintaining skin health in the elderly.