What should be done if an elderly person in bed develops pressure ulcers?

In general, bedsores in elderly individuals who are bedridden may be caused by factors such as humidity and temperature, skin aging, slowed blood circulation, malnutrition, diabetes, etc. Treatment under a doctor's guidance may include general care measures and medication. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Effects of Humidity and Temperature

Due to declining bodily functions, elderly people may have weakened temperature regulation and sweat control. Combined with limited mobility from being bedridden, this can lead to excessive moisture and heat buildup in certain areas. Prolonged exposure to such conditions can damage the skin’s protective barrier and increase the risk of bacterial growth and infection, potentially leading to bedsores. Regular repositioning and keeping the skin dry are essential to prevent prolonged pressure on any area.

2. Skin Aging

With age, elderly individuals experience thinning skin, reduced elasticity, and diminished regenerative capacity, making skin at pressure points more susceptible to injury and ulceration. Adequate nutrition, including sufficient protein and vitamin intake, can help strengthen skin resilience.

3. Slowed Blood Circulation

Aging reduces blood vessel elasticity and slows blood flow, impairing circulation. This can result in inadequate blood supply to pressured areas, causing tissue hypoxia and necrosis, ultimately leading to bedsores. Performing gentle in-bed exercises such as leg lifts and joint flexion/extension can help improve circulation.

4. Malnutrition

Reduced digestive and absorptive function, along with poor appetite, often leads to malnutrition in older adults. This weakens the skin’s ability to repair itself and reduces resistance to pressure and infection, increasing the likelihood of bedsores during prolonged bed rest. These cases are often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as weight loss and fatigue. Patients may take medications such as Zhenqi Fuzheng Granules, Compound Vitamin B Tablets, or Vitamin C Tablets as directed by a physician.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes, commonly caused by genetic and lifestyle factors, results in persistently elevated blood glucose levels that damage blood vessels and nerves, impairing skin repair and immune function. In bedridden patients, this increases susceptibility to skin damage and delays wound healing, significantly raising the risk of bedsores. Typical symptoms also include increased thirst, hunger, and urination. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance in using medications such as metformin sustained-release tablets, glimepiride tablets, or recombinant human insulin injection.

To prevent bedsores, elderly individuals should maintain clean and dry skin, eat a balanced diet to ensure adequate nutrition, engage in appropriate bedside physical activities to promote blood circulation, and effectively manage chronic conditions such as diabetes.