Rashes can be more than just uncomfortable for seniors. If rashes become serious, they can lead to skin infections. Seniors have a high risk of developing rashes because bacteria thrive in skin folds or anywhere there is wet skin and warmth. Your senior mom or dad could develop serious rashes like:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
- Fungal infections
- Shingles (herpes zoster)
- Pressure sores
- Cellulitis
- Scabies
Seniors may scratch or pick at rashes and lesions, which can spread rashes and cause the lesions to get infected. But there are some things that seniors can do to avoid getting rashes like:
Get Personal Care at Home
Personal care at home for seniors is a great way to help your senior mom or dad with hygiene tasks. With personal care at home, your senior parent will have compassionate and skilled care from a caregiver that is trained to help seniors with hygiene tasks like using the bathroom, showering, and getting dressed.
Seniors who have personal care at home have a lower risk of developing rashes because they have someone working with them to make sure their skin is dry, clean, and moisturized at all times.
Use Fragrance-Free Detergent
Laundry detergent can contain heavy chemical fragrance oils that can cause rashes as well as asthma flare-ups. Buy laundry detergent for your senior mom or dad that has no fragrance or dyes and is allergen-free. The type of detergent used for baby clothes and baby blankets is a great choice for seniors too.
Choose Skin-Friendly Clothing
Seniors should always wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing made from soft, natural fabrics like cotton or bamboo. Avoiding tight, synthetic materials that can trap moisture and irritate the skin can lower the risk of developing rashes. Seniors should also always wash new clothes before wearing them to wash out any chemicals or allergens that could cause rashes.
Use Gentle Skin Care Products
Seniors should be using gentle, hypoallergenic skin care products specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Don’t let your mom or dad use products containing harsh chemicals, fragrances, or alcohol, as these can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to irritation. Moisturize regularly with a mild, fragrance-free lotion or cream to keep the skin hydrated and prevent dryness. Many soaps say they are moisturizing when they’re not. Baby soap and shampoo are also a good choice for seniors because babies and seniors both have very delicate skin.
Practice Proper Wound Care
If your senior parent has any cuts, scrapes, or existing skin conditions, it’s essential to practice proper wound care to prevent infections and minimize the risk of developing rashes. Seniors who have diabetes and have leg ulcers should be getting professional wound care from a home nurse or medical practitioner. Or, they should go to a doctor for would cleaning and dressing changes.
If Your Senior Parent Gets a Rash
If your senior parent does develop a rash take them to the doctor right away. Don’t let them scratch the rash or do anything that could spread it.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Personal Care at Home in Hamilton, TX, please contact the caring staff at Clear Path Home Care today at (325) 430-0151
Clear Path Home Care provides compassionate, high-quality home care in McCulloch County, San Saba County, Mills County, Hamilton County, Runnels County, Coleman County, Brown County, Comanche County, Eastland County, Callahan County, Palo Pinto County, Stephens County, Shackleford County, Jack County, Young County, Throckmorton County, Concho County, Archer County, Clay County, Wilbarger County, and Wichita County in Texas.
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