Is my finch ill?

Question
Hi, I noticed that my finch was loosing a lot of feathers but in the past week she has large bald areas around the neck and under her wings.  

Today, I noticed what looked like round 'blisters'?... not sure how to describe them but they are round and sort of yellowish and are in clusters in the areas where there is feather loss.  She is still active and is eating and drinking well.  

I should also mention that she is approximately 8 years old.  I know that finches do not usually live this long so could she just be nearing the end?

Thanks so much!

Answer
It could be old age but you may want to take your bird to a vet. I've never heard of such a thing even in old birds. It's a little out of my area of expertise but a trip to the vet should clear everything up if it's something to worry about and if it is, the vet will have an answer for you.