Bed Sores Prevention

Do you have a parent or aging loved one who is bound to their bed or wheelchair because of an illness or condition? If you do, are you making sure they are moving enough or their hygiene is good? The Omaha senior care professionals suggest you ask them. Seniors who are in one position all day long have a higher chance of developing bedsores. 

What are bed sores? 

Bedsores are a pressure sore that appears on the skin after having so much pressure on it after a long period. Typically, it’s on areas around the skin where it’s bony like the heal, knees, elbows or hips. 

Symptoms of a bed sores

If you’re unsure what bedsores are, here are some signs that you can look for in yourself or a loved one. 

• Changes in the skin’s color

• Skin areas are tender

• Swelling 

• Pus-like draining 

Causes of bed sores 

Poor nutrition

Having poor nutrition doesn’t only affect your weight or energy but also your chances of getting bedsores. If your body isn’t getting the necessary amounts of protein, zinc or iron, your body could start to develop these types of sores. 

Moisture

Moisture on the skin can be more damaging than people think. When the skin has excess moisture from poor hygiene, it can cause injury on the skin when it’s under pressure. It can become a problem for elderly adults who have bladder problems and have a limited range of motion.

One way to prevent bedsores from occurring is by making sure they have good hygiene. It could mean they are bathing regularly or getting the assistance they need with personal hygiene. Getting them the help of a personal Omaha senior care home caregiver can ease your mind if your loved one lives alone and struggles with a lack of motion. 

Lack of movement 

There comes a time in life when you reach a certain age, and your movements aren’t the same as they were when you were younger. Simple things like bathing, changing clothes or walking can become impossible without assistance. The lack of movement cannot only limit your everyday life but also increase your chance of developing bedsores. 

The best way to assist your loved one who is bound to a bed or chair from developing these sores is by moving them. It is recommended that your loved one is changing positions often. Experts suggest that people in wheelchairs are being changed every 15 minutes, and individuals in bed should be moved every two hours. 

The best solution

When you have a parent or elderly friend who lives alone, it can become challenging to make sure they are getting the correct care. The best solution is getting them a home caregiver to help them and give you the ease of mind. An Omaha senior care home caregiver can ensure there personal hygiene is proper, meals are nutritious and they are moving enough. 

Let Akkase Home Health Care professional caregivers give your elderly loved one the care they deserve. We provide services in both the Omaha and Lincoln areas. We’re Medicaid certified for the waiver program, as well. Contact us to set up a consultation today.