How to Prevent Bedsores in Elderly Patients at Home?

Your loved one or person you are caring for might be spending more time in bed. Maybe because they are ill, have limited mobility, or recovering from injury or surgery. Now what you need to watch out for is the condition that we call bedsores, pressure ulcers, or pressure injuries. While you can treat this condition at home, it’s important to know what bedsores look like first so you can catch them early. Then we will go over some natural remedies and proven techniques that can help ease the pain of those in your care. 

 

What Do Bed Sores Look Like in the Elderly?

Bedsores, or pressure ulcers, can be quite common in seniors, especially if they have limited mobility. But don’t worry; I’ll guide you through what to watch for so you can catch any potential sores before they become a bigger problem.

How they appear will depend on what stage condition is but here is the general overview;

Pressure injuries usually start as spots on the skin that look red, blue, or purple and don’t change color when you press on them. So, look out for this sign. These spots can quickly turn into blisters or open sores. As they get worse, they can become infected and even reach down to the muscles, bones, or joints.

Where to Check: Pay special attention to the back of the head, shoulders, elbows, lower back, hips, buttocks, heels, and ankles. These spots are most prone to pressure.

 

Ways to Cure Bed Sores at Home:

 These are some steps you can take to prevent bed sores at home;

1. Change Positions Frequently:

This isn’t a remedy you apply directly to the skin, but this way is said to be one of the most important natural ways to prevent bedsores. Regularly changing positions helps relieve pressure on vulnerable areas, allowing sores to heal.

What to do: With the help of a family member or someone else, try to change their position every 2 hours. For those in a wheelchair, if they have enough upper body strength, encourage them to shift their weight every 15 minutes. They can do that by putting pressure on the arms of the chair and then raising your body. 

 

Tips for repositioning:

Improper positioning can lead to shearing and friction injuries:

• When repositioning, lift the patient instead of dragging them across the bed to avoid friction.
• Avoid raising the head of the bed more than 30 degrees unless necessary, as this can increase the risk of shearing.
• Devices such as slide sheets or transfer boards can help reposition patients safely.
• Place pillows under the lower legs to keep heels off the bed, reducing pressure on vulnerable areas.

Read More: Benefits of Adjustable Beds for Seniors

2. Manage Incontinence:

Incontinence can increase the risk of bedsores due to prolonged skin exposure to moisture and it may feel like a big task, but a few simple steps can make a huge difference:

• Clean Up Quickly: Whenever accidents happen, clean the skin gently right away. The sooner you clean up, the better for their skin.
• Use a Barrier Cream: Applying a barrier cream can help protect their skin from urine and stool, acting like a shield.
• Treat Redness Immediately: If you start to see any redness, don’t wait! A quick dab of rash ointment can calm the skin.
• Pick the Right Bedding: Choose disposable pads or sheets that are smooth and free of creases to avoid any extra rubbing or discomfort.
• Assist Promptly: If possible, help them get to the toilet or use a bedpan right away. The faster you can manage it, the easier it is to protect their skin.
• Be Gentle When Cleaning: Use a soft sponge, cotton, or wipes to clean up, and avoid scrubbing. A gentle touch goes a long way in keeping their skin safe and healthy.

3. Skin Care:

The most critical aspect when managing bedsores at home as it is the condition that affects the skin, take care of it daily by;

• Clean the skin daily with warm water ( not hot )
• Gently pat the skin dry instead of rubbing it to avoid causing damage. Pay special attention to areas prone to moisture, like underarms, groin, and skin folds.
• Apply a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and prevent dryness. Focus on elbows, knees, heels, and other pressure-prone areas.
• Use a moisturizer that contains natural ingredients like aloe vera or coconut oil for added soothing properties.
• Use soft, breathable sheets and avoid wrinkles in the bedding to reduce friction against the skin.
• Try dressing them up in loose, comfortable clothing made of soft fabrics like cotton.

4. Balanced Diet and Hydration:

Healing bedsores from the inside are just as important as treating them externally. A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins (especially A, C, and E), and minerals like zinc can support skin repair and strengthen the immune system.

How to Use: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins ( meat, fish, eggs, dairy products), and whole grains in their diet. Make sure they drink plenty of water to keep their skin hydrated (suggested 8 glasses if fluids aren’t restricted)

 

Effective Natural Remedies to Heal Bed Sores:

Here are some effective natural remedies to consider:

1. Honey:

The use of honey is effective and practical and it is used for cancer patients in palliative settings.  It has natural antibacterial properties that can help prevent infection and help in managing bedsore wound pain. Applying a thin layer of honey to the sore and covering it with a clean bandage can reduce inflammation and encourage faster recovery.

How to Use: Clean the affected area gently, apply raw honey, and cover it with a sterile bandage. Change the dressing once or twice daily.

2. Aloe Vera:

Aloe vera is known for its soothing and healing properties, particularly for skin conditions. It can help reduce inflammation, keep the skin moisturized, and promote the healing of sores.

How to Use: Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the sore and gently massage it in. Let it dry, then cover it with a clean, breathable bandage. Repeat 2-3 times daily.

 

Keep an Eye Out Daily:

It might sound like a lot of work, but it’s in the best interest of everyone and can save you and your loved one from future trouble. Conducting a quick skin check every day, especially around the pressure points, can make a huge difference. Catching that red spot early can prevent it from turning into something much more serious.

 

• Always keep the affected area clean and dry.
• Use breathable, soft bandages to cover the sores and allow airflow.
• Consult a healthcare professional if the sore worsens or shows signs of infection.

 

Want To Learn More About us?

Worried about caring for your loved one at home? Our team is here to provide the support and comfort they need. Reach out to us to learn how we can help!

 

Final Thoughts: 

Caring for a bedridden loved one can feel overwhelming, especially when managing their skin health. To make it easier I suggest dividing their care into multiple aspects and focusing on each daily. For instance, while repositioning is a must, you can inspect the skin every other day to ensure nothing is wrong. If you notice any concerning signs mentioned above, try the recommended techniques. However, if the situation worsens, seek medical attention immediately, and consider using natural remedies side by side to help ease their pain. Remember, the small steps you take every day can make a world of difference.

 

FAQ’s 

1. What is the life expectancy of someone with bedsores?

The life expectancy for someone with bedsores, particularly stage 4, depends largely on the treatment they receive. With proper care, stage 4 bedsores can take anywhere from a few months to up to two years to fully heal. However, without treatment, complications like sepsis, cellulitis, or bone infections can significantly decrease life expectancy, especially in elderly patients with underlying health conditions. The risk of a poor prognosis increases if the sores become infected or if the patient has other health issues.

2. What causes bed sores in patients?

Bedsores are mainly caused by prolonged pressure on the skin, especially over bony areas, which restricts blood flow and leads to tissue damage. Other factors include friction, shearing (when the skin moves in one direction while bones move in another), moisture from sweat or incontinence, poor nutrition, and certain medical conditions that affect blood flow, like diabetes.

3. What is the last stage of a bedsore?

The last stage of a bedsore is Stage 4, which is the most severe. At this stage, the sore can expose muscles, bones, or joints. Complications such as infections (sepsis, cellulitis) and tissue death can arise, making it a potentially life-threatening condition. Immediate medical intervention is necessary at this stage.

4. Can you put turmeric on bedsores?

Yes, turmeric can be used on bedsores due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It can aid in reducing inflammation and preventing infection. However, while it may provide some relief, turmeric should not replace medical treatments, especially for advanced-stage sores. Always consult a healthcare provider before trying home remedies on bedsores.

5. What oils are good for bedsores?

Oils like coconut oil and olive oil are beneficial for bedsores as they help moisturize the skin and have mild antibacterial properties. Tea tree oil can also be used, but it must be diluted with a carrier oil before application to avoid skin irritation. These oils can help keep the skin hydrated and prevent further damage, but they should be used cautiously and not as a substitute for professional medical care.