Final answer:
The fragility of elderly skin arises from changes in the Integumentary System such as a thinner epidermis, weaker dermis, decline in collagen and elastin, and the diminished activity of accessory structures. These changes can lead to increased vulnerability to injury and necessitate careful removal of adhesive bandages to prevent skin tearing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fragility of the skin in elderly patients is influenced by several factors associated with the aging process. As one ages, there are reductions in cell division and metabolic activity within the skin's cells. More specifically, there is decreased mitosis in the stratum basale resulting in a thinner epidermis. The dermis, which provides elasticity and resilience, has a reduced capacity to regenerate, leading to slower wound healing and possible tearing when removing adhesive bandages. Furthermore, the hypodermis loses structure and fat, contributing to the overall thinning and increased fragility of the skin.
Additionally, the Integumentary System undergoes significant changes. There's a decrease in the production of substances like collagen and elastin in the dermis, weakening the underlying muscles and reducing the skin's ability to retain moisture. This structural breakdown results in wrinkling and further increases the risk of injury, including from routine actions such as the removal of tape or adhesive bandages.
The accessory structures in the skin also experience lower activity, leading to thinner hair and nails and less sebum and sweat production. This can culminate in issues like heat intolerance in the elderly due to reduced sweating ability. Moreover, the reduction in the activity of cells such as melanocytes and dendritic cells leads to a paler skin tone and lowered immunity, further augmenting the skin's vulnerability to tearing and other injuries.