Bed Sore Information

Bed Sore Information

What Causes Bed Sores?

As our loved ones age, their skin becomes thin and begins to lack the elasticity of those younger in age. When this happens, they become more and more susceptible to skin damage and infection. The lack of a nutritious diet is a common problem among older people and because of this, their immune systems become less capable of fighting off infection and their skin becomes prone to damage.

How to Avoid Bed Sores in Elderly Loved Ones

• Care should be taken to avoid constant pressure on any part of the body.
• Change positions and encourage movement of your loved one to reduce the constant pressure on their skin. Make sure you are aware of the proper methods for moving a person under your care so that you avoid twisting or additionally damaging skin layers.
• Pay close attention to how your loved one is positioned so tat their body weight is evenly distributed over the entire available surface of their bed or chair.
• Use devices specially designed to relieve to pressure on the skin.
• Always place padding on any exposed metal parts of a wheelchair to help reduce pressure and the friction against the skin.
• Be sure to provide a nutritious diet including plenty of protein for those who may be suceptable to bed sores or pressure ulcers.
• Always keep the skin of a loved one clean and never allow body fluids or feces to remain in contact with the skin.
• Use moisturizing lotion lotions to help the skin retain fluid and to prevent it from drying out. Cetain lotions can be considered barrier lotions and contain ingredients that act as a preventative layer to protect the skin from excess moisture or chafing.