Bed sores are just one of the myriad problems that can affect seniors who are bedridden or in a wheelchair. They are the result of constant pressure on one part of the body, which causes the blood vessels feeding that part of the body to shut down. Eventually, the skin will break down to form blisters, then dead skin, and can even infect the tissues, bones and joints. Treating bed sores can be a difficult process, and often leads to painful surgery. The most effective step against these lesions is preventative.Some tips for avoiding bed sores:
• Reposition at least every two hours to relieve pressure
• Inspect the body for signs of bedsores; if any red spots are found, keep all weight off of them until the redness is gone
• Lay flat in bed; raising the head causes the body to slouch deeper in bed, which increases pressure
• Use pressure-reducing aids such as sheepskin, gel, foam or air for cushions
• Immediately clean skin that becomes damp; the moisture will increase the skin's likeliness to break down
• Change sheets frequently, and keep them wrinkle-free
• Massage the skin two to three times daily to promote circulation