Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis in Elderly Adults
Georgia was worried about her elderly father. He had been complaining about an ache in his leg, but Georgia assumed that it was just related to his sedentary lifestyle. When the leg began to swell and turn red, she immediately took him to the doctor for an exam. When the doctor announced that her father had developed deep vein thrombosis or DVT, Georgia wasn’t sure what it was or how serious it could become.
As she learned more about this dangerous condition, she realized how important it was for them to focus their efforts on treatment and prevention. With the help of a homecare assistant to implement good lifestyle habits, Georgia’s father was soon out of danger.
Homecare Somerset NJ – Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis in Elderly Adults
Deep vein thrombosis is the medical term used to describe blood clots in the veins that sit deep in the leg. Not only can it cause discomfort, pain and sluggish circulation, DVT can also lead to serious health issues or even become fatal. Because elderly adults have such a high risk for developing deep vein thrombosis, it’s very important that family caregivers do their best to help prevent it.
The blood clots are most likely to develop in the legs, and they are especially common in seniors that aren’t very mobile. Adults that are bedridden from illness or surgery and those confined to wheelchairs are especially at risk. Weight, smoking, habits, and genetics can also play a role.
Symptoms of DVT
It can be very difficult to detect deep vein thrombosis in an elderly adult. Many people don’t display any outward symptoms, making it very dangerous as they go for long periods of time untreated. When symptoms do present, they usually include swelling along the vein, tenderness, redness and deep pain. Often, a knowledgeable homecare assistant or observant family member will spot symptoms of DVT before the elderly person does.
Because the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis are often present with a number of other age-related issues, it’s quite easy to misdiagnose. If a family caregiver or homecare assistant are aware of what symptoms are possible, they can arrange for a visit to the doctor right away.
Treatment and Prevention of DVT
Treating DVT in seniors includes anticoagulation medication, regular leg exercises, quitting smoking, and wearing compression stockings. However, doing this can be a real challenge for many elderly adults. Seniors who are left on their own a lot are more likely to live a sedentary lifestyle, with is a factor in developing deep vein thrombosis. They may struggle with putting the compression stockings on properly or skip wearing them altogether. All too often, elderly adults forget to take their medicine on time, if at all.
Family caregivers can have peace of mind when they hire a homecare assistant to keep their elderly relative active and moving around. A homecare aide can also help with putting the compression socks on and remind them about taking the meds.
With a homecare assistant in the home looking out for them, elderly adults can avoid developing deep vein thrombosis and better manage their condition if they do have it.
Source: https://www.webmd.com/dvt/tc/deep-vein-thrombosis-prevention
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Homecare Services in Somerset NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.
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