Avoiding Bedsores in the Elderly

Elderly Care in China Grove NC

Bedsores or pressure sores are typically much easier to avoid then to treat in the elderly. However, even with consistent care and preventative care, bedsores can still occur. Learn about bedsore prevention to keep your loved one healthy and feeling their best with these tips from the Mayo Clinic:

How to Prevent Bedsores

The best way family caregivers can prevent bedsores from occurring in the first place is to reposition their loved one on a regular schedule. Also take good care of the skin and maintain a healthy nutritious diet.

Repositioning in Bed

When repositioning in bed, it is important to reposition in a manner that does not put pressure on particular areas. Using multiple pillows can help with this; for instance, place a pillow between the knees or under the arm when they are on their side.

• Change your loved one’s position every two hours if he or she cannot do it without assistance.
• Ask the physician what type of mattress is best. Some mattresses are filled with water or air and relieve pressure points on the body.
• Also adjust how the bed is positioned if it is adjustable. By keeping the bed at no more than 30 degrees, you can prevent shearing.
• Use sheets to help reposition your loved one if he or she has mobility issues.

Repositioning in a Wheelchair

The Mayo Clinic suggests that seniors shift their weight in a wheelchair every 15 minutes and receive assistance in repositioning every hour. Additionally, if your loved one has upper body strength, doing wheelchair pushups is also beneficial. Just as with repositioning in bed, use pillows or cushions to help relieve pressure on specific areas.

Protecting the Skin

Protecting your loved one’s skin is also vital in combating bedsore development. To keep skin healthy try the following tips:

• Be sure to inspect your loved one’s skin on a daily basis. You can do this during dressing or bathing by making it a part of your daily routine.
• Also, if your loved one struggles with incontinence issues, make sure frequent changes of adult undergarments, bedding or ostomy supplies occurs. Bacteria and moisture frequently lead to the development of bedsores.
• If a bedsore begins to develop, clean the area with a mild soap and warm water. Be very gently to avoid irritating or tearing the skin. When finished, pat the skin dry very gently.
• Use talcum powder on areas of the skin that are exposed to moisture. Areas that are typically dry should be moisturized each day.
• Try to choose clothing without buttons and keep bed linens pulled tight to avoid wrinkles, as this can irritate delicate skin.

If you or an aging loved one are considering elderly care in China Grove, NC, contact the caring professionals at TenderHearted Home Care today. Call us at (704) 207-0265

Source
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bedsores/basics/prevention/con-20030848