How to prevent skin tears in the elderly: a caregiver's checklist

By Margaret Hale, Reunoa EditorialLast updated October 26, 2026

Skin tears are one of the few injuries in older age where small, everyday changes really work. This checklist brings together international best-practice recommendations ^{[2] [6]} and the strongest trial evidence we have ^[1]. Print it, stick it on the fridge, share it with paid carers.

Why prevention matters

In long-term care, about 1 in 5 residents had a skin tear in a 2020 study, and almost as many got a new one within four weeks ^[5]. Each tear means pain, weeks of dressings and the risk of infection. And one skin tear is the strongest warning sign for the next ^[4].

The checklist

Skin care

1. Moisturize arms and legs twice a day with a fragrance-free, pH-neutral lotion or cream. This is the single best-studied measure: in 14 Australian aged-care facilities, it cut skin tears by almost half ^[1].
2. Apply moisturizer by smoothing downward, in the direction of hair growth — no vigorous rubbing.
3. Wash with soap substitutes or mild syndet cleansers in lukewarm water; these dry the skin less than ordinary soap ^[3].
4. Pat dry, don't rub.
5. Protect from sun on forearms and hands to slow further thinning.

Clothing and protection

1. Long, soft sleeves and trousers most of the day, even indoors.
2. Padded limb protectors ("geri sleeves") or knee-high socks for those who knock their arms or shins often. See best geri sleeves.
3. Remove sharp jewellery — rings with raised stones, rough watch straps.
4. Keep nails short and smooth — the person's own and the caregiver's.

Moving and handling

1. Never pull, lift or drag by the arms or wrists. Support under the shoulder blades and hips; ask for a slide sheet or transfer belt.
2. Encourage the person to help themselves where safe — it reduces the force you need.
3. Slow down during dressing: roll sleeves up first, guide the hand through, don't tug fabric over the arm.

Environment

1. Pad the hazards: bed rails, wheelchair arms and footplates, sharp table corners and door frames. Good lighting at night reduces knocks.

Dressings and devices

1. No ordinary tape on skin. Use silicone tape, tubular retention bandages or wraps. Remove dressings low and slow.

Nutrition

1. Enough protein and fluids every day. Weight loss and dehydration make skin more fragile; ask the doctor or a dietitian if appetite is poor.

A daily routine that takes five minutes

For care homes and agencies

Best-practice guidance suggests assessing skin tear risk on admission and after any change in condition, writing prevention into the care plan, documenting every skin tear with its type and size, and training staff in safe handling ^[2]. A structured moisturizing program is cheap and has trial evidence behind it ^[1].

If a skin tear happens anyway

Don't panic, and don't use a sticky plaster. Follow how to treat a skin tear: pressure, gentle rinse, flap back into place, silicone dressing, arrow on the dressing.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to prevent skin tears in the elderly?

Twice-daily moisturizing of the arms and legs has the strongest trial evidence. Combine it with protective clothing, gentle handling, a padded environment and avoiding tape on the skin.

What lotion is best for preventing skin tears?

A fragrance-free, pH-neutral moisturizer used consistently twice a day. In the key trial, a standard perfume-free product was used; consistency mattered more than the brand.

Do geri sleeves prevent skin tears?

Padded limb protectors cushion bumps on forearms and shins and are widely recommended for people who tear easily. They are most useful for people who knock their limbs often or need help with transfers.

Who is most at risk of skin tears?

Older adults with a previous skin tear, those who need help to move or dress, people with dementia, poor balance, dry skin, long-term steroid use or poor nutrition.

General information, not medical advice. Written by the Reunoa editorial team; Reunoa makes Bruise Defense & Repair Serum. See our editorial policy for how we pick sources and keep product mentions fair.