Shingles is a condition that is more likely to occur in older adults, so seniors need to know as much as possible about it. The more information they have, the faster seniors and families can respond if they do spot the tell-tale rash. Home care assistance can help seniors to be more comfortable while they recover if they do develop shingles.
Who Is at Risk?
Older adults are more at risk for developing shingles, especially if they have weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions. Shingles develops in people who had chickenpox as a child, because the virus goes dormant in their bodies. Doctors don’t know yet why some people get shingles and others don’t, but they can help the rash to fade as quickly as possible.
Early Symptoms
The earliest symptoms include tingling, burning, or pain before the rash even appears. Seniors might not realize at first that these odd feelings are possibly related to shingles. If they ever develop shingles again, though, those earliest signs can help them get treatment sooner. Home care providers can help aging adults stay alert for what some of these odd symptoms might mean.
Recognizing the Rash
The shingles rash itself most often appears as a band of blisters on the torso. It’s usually on one side of the body and it can be a very painful rash. The blisters often itch and can also be painful. Scratching doesn’t offer real relief, and it can cause the rash to spread. Home care assistance can help aging adults keep the rash clean and protected so that it’s less likely to spread elsewhere.
Managing Pain and Discomfort
Many people who have shingles experience severe pain, but others experience only mild discomfort. The areas that hurt can extend beyond the area of the rash. Unfortunately, the pain might last longer than the rash does, too. There are topical remedies that seniors can use that help to numb the pain. Home care providers can help seniors to fill prescriptions and apply creams to aras that are hard to reach.
Reducing Complications
Without treatment, shingles can have some serious complications. If seniors scratch the rash, they might accidentally cause bigger wounds that can become infected. They also run the risk of long-term nerve pain. Home care assistance can help seniors get to medical appointments and stay aware of any signs that the rash might be getting worse.
Staying Comfortable
During recovery, it’s most important for seniors with shingles to stay as comfortable as possible. Loose clothing and cool compresses can help some. It also helps for seniors to have something available to capture their attention and distract them from itching and pain. Home care assistance can help seniors find answers for these issues.
Considering Vaccinations
Once they’re healed, seniors might want to talk with their doctors about the shingles vaccine. Getting these shots can help to reduce the risk that seniors get shingles again. If they do, it’s possible the rash won’t be as severe.
Shingles can be serious, and is usually uncomfortable. The more seniors understand about the condition the easier it is for them to get help sooner. Home care assistance can offer support during shingles outbreaks and throughout the rest of the time seniors age in place, too.
If you are considering home care assistance in Parker, CO, for an aging loved one, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY HomeCare of Parker. 303-953-9924
