Bacterial skin infections are a common complication of diabetes, and can be severe. Elderly adults have immune systems that tend to be less effective and responsive than those of younger people. This means they are more likely to develop infections, and have a more difficult time of fighting off those infections if they occur. An elderly adult who develops a bacterial skin infection is more vulnerable to other types of infections and illnesses as well. As a family caregiver for an elderly adult who is living with diabetes, it is important for you to take steps to protect your senior from the complications associated with this disease, particularly infections. Proper skin and nail care are essential steps in preventing these infections, and protecting your senior’s health and well-being.

Diabetes often leads to skin that is dry, itchy, thin, and vulnerable. Because of the discomfort of dry and itchy skin, your elderly adult is likely to scratch or rub at these areas. Their thin and fragile skin can then tear or rip, opening them up to bacterial infections. Often this bacteria is introduced when your parent is scratching because of their own fingernails. This makes it as important to take proper care of their nails to prevent this transmission as it is to protect their skin to reduce the risk of damage.

Use these tips to reduce the risk of bacterial infection with proper skin and nail care:

• Ensure their skin is well-moisturized at all times. Applying high quality moisturizer after bathing, and throughout the day keeps their skin from drying out so it is more comfortable
• Avoid long, hot baths or showers, which can dry out and irritate the skin
• Keep their fingernails short to reduce bacteria buildup beneath them
• Make sure their nails are smooth to reduce the risk that sharp corners or edges will cut your parent’s skin
• Encourage your parent to stay properly hydrated, which helps to keep their skin healthier and prevents drying
• Examine their feet daily to detect any problems such as ulcers, blisters, splinters, small cuts, or other issues that could lead to infection
• If your senior is restricted to a wheelchair or bed, make sure they change positions regularly to prevent pressure sores

If you’re aging loved one has recently developed further challenges and symptoms, their difficulties have worsened, your own schedule or limitations have changed your ability to provide care, or you simply feel your senior would benefit from diversified care, now may be the ideal time to introduce elderly care. An elderly home care services provider can offer your aging parent a wide range of fully customized services specifically designed to meet their needs, and help them to live their highest quality of life possible as they age in place. As their family caregiver, knowing your senior has access to this care can ease your stress, and allow you to take a step back and focus your energy, attention, and efforts on your senior’s needs in the most effective and efficient ways possible. Not only does this ensure your senior gets all the care they need, but it also enables you to fulfill your other obligations, such as managing your career, taking care of your house, raising your children, and more.

If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring Elderly Care in Pinellas Park, FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff At Assisting Hands Home Care Today! 727-748-4211.