How to Prevent Bedsores for Bedridden Seniors

Bed sores, also known as pressure sores, are types of skin injuries that are a result of applying pressure in a prolonged period of time on the skin. This often afflicts patients who stay on bed for extended periods of time such as bedridden senior patients. 

 

This is inevitable for patients who will need to stay in bed for a long time but can be prevented using the following methods:

1. Repositioning the patient frequently.

Changing the patient’s position every after two hours is one way of releasing the pressure in the targeted areas. If the patient is in a wheelchair, do this every 30 minutes. This is where Senior Home Care in Vancouver provides the most help. Since moving a patient by yourself constantly is a huge challenge, you need the help of professional caregivers who are experienced in these matters.

2. Provide ample leg support to the patient. 

This can help deflect the pressure on the hipbones. Put a pillow or a foam under the legs, making sure that the knees and the ankles do not touch each other.

3. Let the patient use mattresses that have more breathable and supportive functions.

These mattresses will prevent sweat from accumulating and will also provide the support needed at the targeted areas. You can also invest in a bed that can be automatically adjusted.

Always watch out for signs of bedsores. With Home Care services For Seniors that you can get from Just Like Family, you can detect early signs of bedsores and prevent them from worsening.