Diaper rash doesn’t only occur in babies. Adults and seniors who use diapers can also experience it. Diaper rash in the elderly can cause discomfort, itching, and a stinging sensation on the skin. Therefore, it’s important to know how to treat diaper rash in seniors easily and quickly.
Skin rashes are a very common skin problem seen in children, adults, and the elderly. Seniors who suffer from incontinence or any health condition that requires the use of diapers are more prone to rashes. This is often related to wet diapers, moist skin, prolonged contact with urine or feces, and sensitive skin.
Causes of Diaper Rash in the Elderly
Diaper rash in seniors can be caused by several factors. Redness appears on the skin in areas covered by diapers due to moisture, lack of airflow, and friction between the skin and the diaper.
To avoid moisture buildup, it’s best to change the diaper regularly every few hours. Moist skin that constantly rubs against a dirty diaper surface is prone to bacterial growth, which triggers rashes and skin irritation.
Additionally, diaper rash in the elderly may also be caused by allergies due to sensitive skin. Poor hygiene of the genital area and surrounding skin can also lead to rashes and irritation.
Symptoms of Diaper Rash in the Elderly
Diaper rash in adults and seniors occurs in areas that are often covered by diapers such as the groin, buttocks, thighs, and hips. Symptoms may include red spots or patches on the skin, rough texture, itching, and a burning sensation.
5 Ways to Treat Diaper Rash in the Elderly
Many people think that treating diaper rash in babies and seniors is different. In fact, the methods are quite similar. Here are five ways to treat diaper rash in the elderly:
1. Change diapers regularly
Ensuring that full or dirty diapers are replaced on time is the correct way to treat diaper rash. Make sure you change the senior’s diaper consistently. Poor diaper-changing habits can slow down the healing process.
2. Maintain cleanliness
Most diaper rashes in seniors can be treated by keeping diaper-covered areas clean. Every time you change the diaper, clean the intimate area with water and use gentle soap if needed. After that, dry the rash area thoroughly using a clean towel or cloth.
3. Use the right diaper size
Diaper size significantly affects comfort and skin health. Using the wrong size can lead to rashes. Diapers that are too loose may cause leakage, while those that are too tight can cause redness due to constant friction.
4. Apply diaper rash ointment
To speed up healing, you can use creams or ointments specifically formulated for rashes. Effective diaper rash products usually contain zinc oxide as the main active ingredient, or you may use petroleum jelly as a protective top layer.
5. Improve diaper airflow
Diaper rash in seniors may also occur due to poor airflow in adult diapers. Limited airflow makes the skin damp, warm, and uncomfortable. Choose diapers with good breathability to reduce the risk of diaper rash.
The causes of diaper rash in seniors are generally similar to those in babies. Therefore, always pay attention to any changes in skin condition while using diapers. If symptoms of diaper rash begin to appear, take the appropriate steps to treat it based on the senior’s needs.
Parenty: Adult Diapers with 3D Structure and Breathable Design
Parenty is an adult diaper designed with softness and care. It offers a reliable solution for comfort and hygiene, providing maximum protection without worrying about leaks.
Parenty includes several features such as SAP and pulp absorbent layers, elastic waistband that follows body shape, a blue line to indicate front and back, and reinforced side cores to reduce leakage.
In addition, Parenty has an air-ventilated bottom layer that allows air to flow out without letting liquid escape. This helps reduce moisture and improve overall airflow.
The 3D surface feature on Parenty has even received recognition from Tras n Co Info Brand. Parenty earned the Top Innovation Award for its three-dimensional surface structure on adult diapers. This 3D surface helps create space between the skin and the diaper to speed up urine absorption. (Aq/MKK)
