Cellulitis is a common condition in seniors that can become serious quickly if it’s not treated. It’s important for seniors living at home to do all they can to prevent cellulitis so they can avoid serious complications that could put them in the hospital. Personal care at home providers can help your senior mom or dad avoid developing cellulitis by helping them wash, moisturize, and take care of their skin.
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin that occurs when bacteria, like Streptococcus or Staphylococcus, enter the skin through a cut, scratch, or sore. The skin becomes red, swollen, painful, and warm to the touch. Cellulitis can spread throughout the body. If your mom or dad has a condition like diabetes they have a higher risk of developing cellulitis, so they must do everything possible to take care of their skin.
The care providers who specialize in personal care at home know how to spot the warning signs of cellulitis. And they can help your mom or dad do these things to lower their risk of getting cellulitis or other skin infections.
Keep Skin Clean and Moisturized
One of the simplest ways to prevent cellulitis is for your senior parent to keep their skin clean and well-moisturized. Clean skin helps reduce the chance of bacteria entering through any cracks or cuts.
Your mom or dad should be using a mild soap and warm water to wash their skin daily. When washing they should apply a thick moisturizer. This routine will keep your mom or dad’s skin clean and prevent the skin from drying out and cracking. Cracked skin allows bacteria to get into the body, causing cellulitis.
Treat Wounds Right Away
Any kind of break in the skin, even a small scratch, can allow bacteria to get in. If your mom or dad gets a cut, blister, or scrape, it should be cleaned immediately. Then it should be bandaged to keep bacteria out until it heals.
Check Feet Regularly
Seniors, especially those with diabetes or poor circulation, should check their feet every day. Foot wounds or sores are a common entry point for bacteria that cause cellulitis. Personal care at home can help seniors with this.
A care provider can check your mom or dad’s feet daily for cuts, blisters, sores, or any kind of break in the skin. They can also help your mom or dad keep their feet clean and moisturized.
Boost The Immune System Strong
A strong immune system helps fight off infections, including cellulitis. Eating a balanced diet, bathing regularly, and getting enough sleep are all ways seniors can keep their immune systems in good shape.
Seniors who want to boost their immune system should try eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, getting more sleep, and managing their stress.
Wear Proper Footwear
Wearing proper footwear can prevent injuries that might lead to cellulitis. Shoes that fit well protect your senior parent’s feet from blisters, cuts, and scrapes. Seniors should avoid walking barefoot, even in the house, to reduce the risk of foot injuries. Sturdy slippers or shoes that fit comfortably and allow for airflow are the best shoes for seniors to wear at home.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Personal Care at Home Services in Roswell GA, please get in touch with the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (404) 266-8773
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Atlanta, Palmetto, Alpharetta, Chattahoochee Hills, Milton, College Park, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Hapeville, Johns Creek, and all of Fulton County.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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