With growing age, the human body’s ability to regenerate and heal wounds becomes weak. As a result, it might take longer for an elderly person to heal their wounds. A scrape on a young kid or adult might be gone after a week. But that is not the case for elderly people since it can take weeks and even months for the wound to recover.
Furthermore, mature skin further increases the chances of infections and other complications. So, it is important to manage the wound properly for a good recovery.
Wound Management: Chances of Infections
An important thing to note is that older people have mature skin that naturally takes longer to heal. It gives the pathogens an optimal breeding ground if there is no proper wound management.
Seniors who don’t have the mental/physical capabilities to care for the wounds on their own are at a high risk of infection. If the wound leads to an infection, it can lead to serious issues for the older person, such as decreased mobility, pain, discomfort, etc.
Also, an important thing to note is that older adults have weak immune systems. It makes them prone to severe issues and infections that can spread quickly. In severe cases, it can also threaten the patient’s life.
Treatment for Chronic Wounds
Any trauma or pressure can damage the tissue, causing a wound. One thing to note is that wounds are not only open injuries but closed injuries are also wounds known as contusions. The body begins the natural healing process that would heal these wounds over time.
It usually involves the body’s defense system fighting dangerous pathogens and regenerating damaged tissues. However, this process can be relatively slow for older people because of their old age and mature skin. Consequently, it can lead to a chronic wound, which heals slowly or not at all.
The only way to deal with a chronic wound is to ensure proper wound management. It means covering the wound with Hydrofera blue dressing to ensure the tissues regenerate. Doing so will provide a better environment for the wound to heal and stay safe from possible complications.
Wound Management beyond the Facility
Chronic wounds require treatment from professionals such as physicians or doctors. But wound management goes beyond that since patients need proper care and attention all the time. Also, some people limit wound management only to cleaning and changing the bandages.
Other aspects also play a crucial role in the healing process of the wound. For example, medical professionals might also recommend other exercises and physiotherapy at your home to increase blood circulation in the injured area.
Also, they would advise you to follow a specific dietary plan to aid in the wound’s recovery process. All these things will allow the patient to heal their wound quickly.
Seek Medical Assistance for Proper Wound Management
Proper wound management is vital for elderly patients. It not only prevents them from serious complications but also reduces the duration of recovery. This way, you can protect the other person’s well-being and ensure their quality of life doesn’t suffer.
However, you should seek assistance from a relevant professional healthcare provider that will help you with wound management for your loved ones. Ensuring the healthcare provider you choose has a compassionate approach will help you get the best coverage for your elderly. They will also help overcome the trauma and depression associated with the injury.