For seniors that experience mobility challenges or are bedridden, it is likely that they experience bedsores often, which can be extremely uncomfortable and frustrating. Read on to find out more about elderly bedsores as well as the ways to treat them.
Elderly Bed Sores
Also known as pressure ulcers, bedsores occur on areas of the skin that have been under prolonged pressure. As such, they most commonly form on skin areas that cover the ankles, tailbone, hips, as well as heels. While bedsores can happen to anyone regardless of age, they most commonly occur in seniors due to mobility issues that cause them to be confined to their bed for a long period of time. Apart from being in bed, it can also stem from sitting in a wheelchair or wearing a cast for an extended period of time.
Causes of Bed Sores
To better understand what makes bedsores happen, let’s take a look what is the root cause of bedsores.
- Pressure: When an area of the skin experiences prolonged pressure, blood flow to that area becomes limited. Without the proper blood flow, the affected skin and its nearby tissue become starved of nutrients, translating to skin death. This normally happens in areas that are covered with less muscle or fat.
- Friction: When the skin is constantly rubbing against another material or surface, it can make the affected area more prone to injury. When two surfaces in contact move in different directions, shear happens, which is one of the culprits known to cause bedsores. Usually, such an occurrence happens to the elderly due to their fragile skin.
Symptoms of Bed Sores
Bedsores form very quickly, and symptoms are generally easily noticeable. Bedsores can begin to form as early as just a week of prolonged pressure. Subsequently, if the affected area continues to be under pressure and contact, the bedsores can become even more severe. A non-exhaustive list of symptoms of bedsores to look out for include:
- Swollen skin
- Tender areas
- Changes in skin color and texture
- Areas that feel either warmer or cooler to touch
Preventing Bed Sores
When it comes to bedsores, prevention is better than cure. The truth is that bedsores aren’t difficult to keep away so long as you follow a combination of repositioning yourself frequently and taking care of the skin.
- Using a pressure-relieving mattress. These mattresses are designed to relieve pressure, preventing bedsores from forming in the first place. Some of them are designed to automatically alternate pressure in the mattress, so little to no effort is required on your end.
- Shifting weight. Frequently changing the area you put your weight on will help to alleviate the pressure formed on a skin contact point. This includes changing the side you are lying on or temporarily lifting yourself up from the wheelchair. If you have difficulty shifting your weight, assisted living will greatly help to keep you comfortable.
- Regularly cleaning the skin and drying it helps to reduce exposure to moisture as well as waste. You can also moisturize your skin and use talcum powder to reduce any friction. Impressions Housekeeping can also help to ensure smoothed bedding to protect your skin from pressure and friction.
