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Elderly Bed Sores Treatment and Prevention: A Complete Guide

Picture of Lindsay DeLong
Lindsay DeLong

OTR/L is a registered Occupational Therapist with a MSOT degree from Grand Valley State University. She has experience in rehab and home health-based adult care and education focused on maximizing safety, independence, and comfort during chronic and acute disease processes and aging.

Elderly individuals, especially those who are bedridden or have limited mobility, are at an increased risk of developing bed sores, also known as pressure ulcers. These sores can cause pain, swelling, and in severe cases, open wounds and infections. Early intervention and proper treatment are essential in preventing these sores from worsening.

The good news is that with the right elderly bed sores treatment, these painful conditions can be managed. Among the most helpful products to prevent bedsores are the alternating air pressure mattress and the wedge pillow. Learn more about Lunderg’s innovative, industry-leading, quality products to prevent bedsores like the Alternating Air Pressure Pad or the Bedsore Pillow.

This complete bedsore treatment guide will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for bed sores, focusing on how these products can make a significant difference in bed sore treatment and increased quality of life.

About Bed Sores (Pressure Sores)

Bed sores, also known as pressure ulcers, develop when there is prolonged pressure on the skin, muscles, or joints, often due to extended periods of immobility and a sedentary lifestyle. This pressure reduces blood flow to the affected areas, which causes the skin and underlying tissue to break down and become painful.

Risk Factors for Bed Sores:

  • Limited Mobility: Those who are bedridden or unable to move frequently are at a higher risk.
  • Age: The elderly have more fragile skin and reduced circulation, often coupled with limited mobility, which makes them more prone to bed sores.
  • Pre-Existing Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, vascular disease, or incontinence can increase the risk for bed sores.
  • Poor Nutrition: Inadequate diet can weaken the skin, and affect circulation, making it more susceptible to damage.

Bed sores are most commonly found in areas where bones are close to the skin, such as the heels, elbows, hips, and lower back.

bedsore prevention tips

The Importance of Bed Sore Management and Prevention

Preventing and managing bedsores is crucial for improving the quality of life for elderly individuals, especially those with limited mobility. Left untreated, bed sores can lead to infections and serious complications, including sepsis, coma, and death. That’s why elderly bed sores treatment begins with effective prevention, using air mattresses, wedge pillows, and other support devices.

Preventing pressure on vulnerable areas is vital to reducing the risk of developing bed sores. Using the right bedsore prevention products can make a significant difference in the health and well-being of those in care.

Best Cure for Bed Sores: Pressure Sore Management and Prevention Products

There are a variety of products available to help manage and prevent bedsores. By using the right combination of tools, caregivers can effectively reduce the risk and support healing.

Alternating Air Pressure Pad

One of the most effective products for preventing and treating bed sores is the alternating air pressure pad. This air mattress for bed sores patients uses alternating air pressure to redistribute body weight across the surface of the mattress, reducing continuous pressure on any one area.

This helps improve blood circulation and prevents tissue damage. For patients who spend long periods in bed, using an alternating air pressure mattress reduces the need for frequent repositioning, while also offering a surface as comfortable as a regular bed.

Benefits:

  • Reduces pressure and increases blood flow.
  • Aids in the healing of existing bed sores by providing adjustable relief.
  • Offers customized comfort for prolonged bed rest.
  • You can get it here.

Bedsore Wedge Pillow

Another essential product for bed sore management is the Lunderg Wedge Pillow for Bed Sores. These pillows are specifically designed to provide targeted support for vulnerable areas of the body, such as the heels, spine, and lower back. The wedge shape helps to elevate parts of the body that are most vulnerable to bedsores, reducing pressure and allowing blood to flow more freely to affected areas. They are especially useful when positioned under the legs or hips to relieve pressure on those key areas. They can be adjusted according to your needs. As always, Lunderg offers 24/7 customer support, and the bedsore pillow also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Benefits:

  • Provides targeted pressure relief.
  • Helps prevent new sores from forming, and existing sores from worsening.
  • Non-intrusive and can be used in combination with other bedsore treatment products.
  • You can get it here.

Additional Tips for Caregivers

In addition to using the right products, there are other important steps that caregivers can take to help prevent and manage bed sores effectively:

  • Maintain a Regular Repositioning Schedule: Regular repositioning is essential to prevent pressure from building up in one area. Aim to reposition every two hours
  • Monitor Skin Condition: Keep an eye out for early signs of bed sores, such as redness, itchiness, or irritation. Early detection can help prevent further damage and make treatment more effective.
  • Proper Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated is a key ingredient in preventing bedsores. A well-balanced diet with adequate protein is also vital for maintaining healthy skin.
  • Utilize Specialized Products: Lunderg’s air mattresses, wedge pillows, and other products are key to preventing and managing bed sores. Using these products in combination with regular movement and hygiene ensures comprehensive care and reduces the likelihood of developing sores.
  • Stay Educated: Caregivers should be knowledgeable about the best treatments for bed sores and how to implement a full treatment plan. Ongoing education on emerging prevention and treatment methods can help caregivers stay ahead of potential health complications due to bedsores.

Conclusion

The cure of bedsores in elderly patients involves both prevention and careful treatment. Using a combination of products like Lunderg’s air mattresses and wedge pillows for bed sores, and other supportive devices can make a meaningful difference in both the prevention and healing of bed sores.

By maintaining a regular repositioning routine, monitoring skin health, and ensuring proper nutrition and hydration, caregivers can create an environment that promotes comfort and healing for elderly individuals at risk of bedsores.

Lunderg’s trusted healthcare products are designed to help improve quality of life and ensure optimal care for your loved ones and those in your care. Check our products below and start your bed sore prevention journey now.

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