Bedsores, pressure ulcers, or decubitus ulcers can be unpleasant and sometimes life-threatening for the elderly. These sores are frequently created by continuous pressure on the skin, which can cause tissue damage. Bedsores can be especially difficult for the elderly because they may be unable to move around, require assistance for their daily activities, and spend more time in bed or a chair. That is why you must know about the treatment for bedsores in the elderly.
Fortunately, there are various at-home treatments for bedsores in the elderly. This essay will mention some of the most effective treatments for bedsores in the elderly, from easing pressure on damaged regions to utilizing ointments and creams to aid healing.
Table of Contents
Before looking into the best treatment for bedsores in the elderly and home remedies, it is critical to understand the causes. Bed sores are caused by pressure on the skin that delays proper blood flow. The following factors commonly cause bedsores:
Bedsores often happen on the:
Bedsores are classified into four phases, from mild to severe. They are as follows:
Note: If you have full-thickness tissue loss and you see that the base of the ulcer is covered by slough or eschar in the wound bed, a wound is not assigned a stage. Slough comes in a variety of colors, including tan, gray, green, brown, and yellow. Eschar is commonly tan, brown, or black.
A healthcare expert will first do a comprehensive physical examination to identify bedsores. Next, they will search for symptoms of skin injury, such as redness, swelling, and blisters. They will also look for body parts prone to bedsores, including the hips, back, and heels.
A tissue biopsy may be performed if the healthcare practitioner feels the patient has a bedsore. A little piece of skin from the afflicted region is removed and examined under a microscope. This might aid in confirming the diagnosis and the severity of the sore.
In addition to the physical examination and biopsy, the healthcare practitioner could ask about the patient’s medical history and medicines. This information can aid in determining the root cause of the bedsores and guiding treatment recommendations.
There are various steps associated with the treatment of bedsores in the elderly. Let’s take a look:
Step 1. Reducing Pressure
Reducing the pressure and friction that produced the bedsore is the first step in curing it. Among the strategies are:
Step 2. Cleaning and Dressing Wounds
The depth of the wound determines the treatment of pressure ulcers. Cleaning and treating a wound often entails the following:
Step 3. Removing Damaged Tissue
Wounds must be without damaged, dead, or diseased tissue to recover effectively. The doctor, caregiver, or nurse may remove damaged tissue (debride) by gently washing the area with water or cutting off damaged tissue.
Other Treatments
To start at-home treatment for bedsores in the elderly, look at bedsores closely and pay attention to signs of infection, such as:
The stage and depth of damage determine the treatment for bed sores.
Let us give you some general treatment for bedsores in the elderly at home:
First and foremost, the afflicted region must be relieved of pressure. This may be accomplished by frequently shifting postures and avoiding sitting or laying in one position for lengthy periods. You can also utilize specific pillows or mattresses intended to relieve skin pressure.
Keeping the afflicted region clean and dry is also critical to promote recovery. Wash the affected area gently with mild soap and water before patting it dry with a soft towel. Avoid touching your skin since this might cause more injury.
Applying a topical ointment or lotion to the skin can also assist in soothing and encouraging healing. Look for products with anti-inflammatory components, such as zinc oxide or hydrocortisone.
In addition to these home treatments, following your healthcare provider’s treatment recommendations is critical. Medication, dressings, and other therapies may be used to improve healing and avoid infection.
Antibiotic creams are frequently indicated as a therapy option to aid infection prevention and recovery.
Mupirocin is one of the finest antibiotic creams for bed sores. This topical antibiotic treats various bacterial infections, including those that typically cause bed sores. Mupirocin destroys the germs that cause illness and prevents them from spreading.
Silver sulfadiazine is another excellent antibiotic cream for bed sores. This cream includes silver as well as sulfadiazine, a kind of antibiotic. Silver has been used for millennia for its antibacterial characteristics, while sulfadiazine aids in preventing bacterial development in wounds.
When using antibiotic creams for bed sores, it is critical to carefully follow the directions and apply the cream as suggested. In addition, to avoid infection, keep the afflicted area clean and dry, and change dressings regularly.
Hydrogel is an excellent bedsore treatment. It keeps the wound moist, which helps to avoid scabbing and the creation of new tissue. It also moisturizes and soothes the skin, encouraging healing and lowering discomfort.
Another effective therapy for bedsores is zinc oxide. Zinc contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, zinc oxide helps soothe the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
Here at Health & Care Professional Network, we understand the difficulties of caring for the elderly, particularly when it comes to preventing and treating bedsores. That’s why we’re dedicated to delivering compassionate and effective in-home care for elders struggling with this common problem. Our skilled caregivers are trained to deliver the greatest bedsore treatment possible, from easing pressure on affected regions to utilizing the best ointments and lotions to aid recovery.
Be confident that your loved one will receive the finest possible treatment for their bedsores with our in-home care services. We take a tailored approach to therapy, adapting our treatment regimens to each individual’s requirements and preferences. Contact us online now or call us at (702) 871-9917 to learn more about our in-home care services and how we can assist you or a loved one in living a better life.