From the May 2010 Senior Circle publication 
Q: Is bruising more common as we age and when is it a reason to consult with a doctor?
A: Yes, it’s common to experience easy bruising as we age, according to Sangeeta Sehgal, MD, with Portage Medical Group. “As we age we lose the resilience in our skin due to loss of surrounding tissue, which supports the network of capillaries, leaving them vulnerable to break down easily,” she said.
Another reason for easier bruising in seniors is due to many medications commonly prescribed for seniors, said Sehgal. Medications such as Plavix and Coumadin, commonly prescribed to thin out the blood, can make it easier to bruise. “Even baby aspirin that many seniors take for cardiac health can contribute to bruising,” said Sehgal.
To reduce your risk for bruising, Sehgal recommends staying hydrated, and encourages seniors to take a multi-vitamin that includes trace elements to maintain optimal nutrition. “Be sure to see your doctor if you find yourself excessively bruised, particularly if your bruising is accompanied by bleeding gums or if you find that you bleed more profusely from small nicks or cuts. These could be signs of something more serious,” she said.
Sangeeta Sehgal, MD
Portage Medical Group
3630 Willowcreek Road
Portage, IN
219.364.3700