For those with limited mobility or who are bed- or wheelchair-bound, the battle against pressure sores can seem endless. The best level of defense against pressure sores is prevention. Try some of these tips to help protect your loved one’s vulnerable skin from these dangerous sores:
- Frequent Position Changes
- Hourly if wheelchair-bound, every two hours if bedbound
- Use lifting devices when possible to avoid friction during repositioning
- Support
- Use specialized cushions and pads:
- Between knees and ankles
- Under calves to protect heels
- To lie at an angle, protecting hips
- Use specialized cushions and pads:
- Skin Care
- As mentioned in our last blog, use mild soap and warm (not hot) water and apply lotion
- For excessively moist skin, use talcum powder
- Massage areas prone to pressure sores to increase circulation
- Healthy Nutrition and Activity Choices
- Check with your loved one’s doctor for dietary and supplement recommendations for optimum skin health
- Maintain good hydration
- Stop smoking
- Daily exercise (as appropriate and per doctor’s recommendations)
Be sure to contact your loved one’s doctor if a pressure sore is noticed. Independence-4-Seniors can also help by inspecting skin daily to identify vulnerable areas of the skin and detect the early signs of pressure sores. We’re just a phone call away. Contact us today at 630-323-4665.