KCHS Wound Care Clinic Stresses Wound Care Education for Older Adults
Older adults more likely to develop chronic wounds, may require specialized wound care.
The United States has an increasing aging population with the number of Americans aged 65+ projected to reach 94.7 million by 2060 – a 36% increase since 2019.1 Because of this, the KCHS Wound Care Clinic is taking the time this August to educate older adults on the importance of wound care for the ages.
Older adults are more likely to develop chronic wounds.2 As we age, the healing process slows, and there is a decrease in immune response and cell growth. Our skin becomes thin and more delicate, susceptible to cuts, scrapes and sores that are harder to heal.
In addition to these normal, biological functions, older adults are also at an increased risk of having conditions and limitations that amplify the effects of already delayed healing, like immobility and inactivity, diabetes and poor circulation.
“Properly caring for wounds is important no matter your age,” explains Sally Farquhar, APRN “However, wound care is especially essential for older adults.”
While older adults can heal, the body’s capacity to repair the skin on its own is often diminished, but specialized care from a wound center can help support the healing process. Our approach may include:
- Diagnostic testing
- Nutritional evaluation
- Infection control
- Specialized dressings
- Pressure-relieving devices
- Debridement
- Ongoing patient education
The Wound Care Clinic at KCHS is open 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each Tuesday. For more information about wound care or to schedule an appointment, call 308-832-6535. No referral is required.
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1US Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National Diabetes Statistics Report 2020.
2Alam W, Hasson J, Reed M. Clinical approach to chronic wound management in older adults. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2021 Aug;69(8):2327-2334. doi: 10.1111/jgs.17177. Epub 2021 May 17. PMID: 34002364.