This topic is about celebrating a significant milestone: a 50-year anniversary of living with an ileostomy, often called a "stomaversary." The person sharing their story is 69 years old and has enjoyed many years of good stoma health. However, they are beginning to worry about how aging might affect their skin, particularly when removing the wafer. Currently, they remove the pouch without any additional products but are considering changes as they age.

Here are some helpful pieces of advice and insights shared by others:

1. Consider using adhesive remover for aging or long-term skin care.
- Stoma nurses now recommend adhesive-remover spray or wipes as essential to prevent skin tears after years of pouch changes.
- Products like 3M Adhesive Remover Spray, once used in hospitals, have modern equivalents from various suppliers.
- Many people with long-term ileostomies have switched to using remover wipes or sprays and noticed less stinging. They also wash off any residue before applying a new wafer.

2. Modern one-piece and two-piece systems are much better for skin health than older products.
- Early devices included reusable rubber pouches, karaya seals, pastes, and belts.
- Today's disposable systems, like Coloplast SenSura Mio, adhere securely for several days and are gentle on the skin.

3. If you experience irritation:
- After removing the pouch, cleanse the area, pat it dry, and if there are red or itchy spots, lightly dust them with ostomy powder before applying a new wafer.
- Consult an ostomy nurse promptly, as they have access to new products and techniques for managing fragile skin.

4. Longevity and quality of life are achievable.
- People with 48, 52, 60, and even more years of living with an ileostomy report healthy skin well into their 70s and 80s with proper care.
- Maintaining a positive mindset, regularly changing the pouch, and staying active with activities like golf, travel, yoga, and tutoring are emphasized.

5. Planning for the future is important.
- If manual dexterity declines, home-care nurses or trained caregivers can help with appliance changes. Many have had positive experiences with care homes or family support.
- Keep in touch with stoma nurses and manufacturers to access the latest skin-friendly options as supplies continue to advance.