Columbia Aged Care

Bed sores can be a common problem in elderly people, which can lead to pain and discomfort for your loved one. Bed sores are the result of prolonged pressure to the skin, which prevents a sufficient amount of blood flow and nutrients to the skin tissue. Ulcerations or sores then develop on the skin, typically over bony prominences.

Bedsores can develop if your loved one is bedridden or sitting for a prolonged period of time without being properly repositioned. Common areas for bed sores to look out for are hipbones, lower back, tail-bone, knees and shoulders. 

www.bedsores.org has provided some useful information on the risk factors for developing bedsores.

Confinement to bed, chair or wheelchair
If your loved one is unable to move themselves then they can develop bedsores in as little as 1-2 hours if the pressure is not relieved.

Loss of bowel or bladder control
Moisture on your loved ones skin from urine or perspiration can irritate the skin.

Poor nutrition or dehydration
If your loved one’s skin is not properly nourished bed sores can develop.

Carers must be aware of these risk factors when caring for their loved ones in order to prevent the unnecessary development of bed sores. Bedsores can be prevented if your loved one is repositioned frequently, bathed appropriately and any incontinence problems assessed and treated.

Remember that everyone is different and may have different risk factors and treatment options.

Read the full article here.

The International Eczema- Psoriasis Foundation have written an article on 'Eczema Craquelle,' types of Eczema more commonly found in the elderly. The article offers tips on how to alleviate the irritation and discomfort brought on by dry skin.  

Eczema Craquelle or Asteatotic eczema as it is sometimes called, occurs in older people who have a tendency to have thinner and dryer skin. This is also known as asteatotic eczema and it occurs in older people who have thinner and dryer skin.

Asteatotic eczema affects the legs and feet in elderly persons thought to be the result of dry skin, dehydration and malnutrition. Asteatotic eczema almost always affects people over the age of 60.

Winter itch occurs during cold weather. Cold weather wreaks havoc on our skin, sometimes making it dry and flaky. Skin dries out if it's deprived of water and this dryness often causes itchiness, resulting in a condition commonly referred to as "winter itch."

All of these types of eczema will respond positively to the care and control tips listed below:

1) Use moisturizers regularly, particularly after bathing.

2) Avoiding overheating rooms.

3) Limiting and adjusting the method of bathing. 

4) Avoiding the use of deodorant soaps. many soaps contian ingredients that can be irritating to the skin.

5) Avoiding excessive friction on the skin, such as scrubbing with harsh washcloths or wearing woolen clothing.

To read the full article CLICK HERE