No matter how much you want to have a senior loved one live with you, it’s not the best option as you’re traveling to and from work every day. Because of this, you decided to send them to a nursing home thinking that it’ll be the most appropriate thing to do for the situation at hand. However, you’ve noticed pressure sores in your loved one’s arms and legs, and you’re starting to be concerned. You think that these pressures sores are linked to nursing home abuse – something which you never thought will happen in the first place. To help you determine if your assumptions are true or not, consider the information below:

But First, What Are Pressure Sores?

Pressures sores or commonly called as bedsores, are injuries to the skin and to other underlying tissues resulting from prolonged pressure on the skin. Pressures sores are usually seen on the skin which covers bony areas of the body such as the ankles, heels, hip bone, and tailbone. Pressure, friction, and shear are the common causes of pressure sores.

People are at risk of pressure sores if they have a medical condition which limits them to change positions as frequently as possible or those who spend most of their time in bed. Most seniors are almost immobile which makes them high risks to develop pressure sores. If left untreated, pressure sores can have life-threatening effects on the body such as cancer and sepsis.

If you have noticed pressure sores from a family member’s body as a result of nursing home abuse, it’s best that you contact a lawyer who is in-depth in handling nursing home abuse cases like this one here. Once you work with them, you’ll be given the best options appropriate for your situation without compromising anyone’s legal rights.

 

How Can You Avoid Pressure Sores?

Of course, you want your senior loved one to be free from pressure sores so they can live a healthier, pain-free life for the longest time possible. Work with the caregivers in the nursing home to ensure that they too, are taking measures to help you achieve that goal. These tips below can come in handy for you and for your senior loved one to avoid pressure sores:

  • Have your loved one use cushions or mattresses which can relieve pressure. There are several special cushions and mattresses available in the market to ensure that the body is well-positioned. If your loved one has a disability, choose one that is appropriate for them.

  • Have your loved one lift themself as often as possible. If they’re in bed, have them move positions for every two hours and every fifteen minutes when they’re in a wheelchair. Have a caregiver assist them when their doing all of these to ensure safety.

  • The skin should be clean and dry at all times. Your loved one, with the assistance of the caregivers in the nursing home, should maintain a clean and dry skin. A gentle cleanser and frequent wash can do the trick.

Key Takeaway Points

One of the reasons why you sent a loved one in a nursing home is because you want the professionals to take care of them even when you’re away. You want them to get the best care possible so they can live a healthier, safer life. And if you suspect that a loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse because of the pressure sores all over their body, you have the right to take things legally. Consider this article to gain information about pressure sores and work with an experienced lawyer right away.