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Advancing age can raise your loved one's risk for skin breakdown and pressure sores. In addition, pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes and immobility can further heighten this risk. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to reduce this risk. One effective intervention to help decrease the incidence of decubitus ulcers is to purchase or rent a pressure sore treatment rotation mattress system. Here are some ways this medical mattress can help your loved one prevent skin problems.

Air Currents

Many pressure relieving mattress systems utilize a system of alternating air currents. This helps keep pressure off bony prominences such as the spine, hips, knees, and ankles. Elderly people who are immobile often have poor circulation, diminished blood flow, and thin skin, which greatly raises their risk for developing pressure sores.

Alternating air current mattress systems help take the pressure off problems areas and may also help promote optimal circulation to reddened areas of the skin. When circulation is restored to the skin, your loved one will be less likely to experience skin excoriation, friction shear, and pressure sores. To further enhance the effects of a pressure sore treatment rotation mattress system, periodically massage your loved one's skin, especially the skin over the bony areas. 

Passive Rotation

One of the most important interventions you can do for your loved one affected with mobility problems is to help him or her change position every couple of hours. Failure to do so will result in prolonged pressure on specific areas of the body. If you are unable to help your loved one change position every couple of hours, skin breakdown from excessive pressure may quickly develop.

Fortunately, a pressure sore treatment rotation mattress system will help keep the pressure off problem areas so that decubitus ulcers do not develop. While pressure relieving mattresses help reduce the risk for pressure ulcers, other interventions such as keeping the individual clean and dry at all times, ensuring that he or she is consuming a diet rich in nutrient-dense foods, and encouraging fluids so that he or she does not get dehydrated will also help keep the skin in optimal condition. 

If your elderly loved one is immobile and unable to change position while in bed, consider buying or leasing a pressure sore treatment rotation mattress system. Doing so will greatly diminish the risk for skin breakdown, tissue damage, and wound infections as a result of excessive pressure on the skin.