According to the National Eczema Association, 31.6 million Americans suffer from eczema. That’s about 10 percent of the population of the United States! If your senior parent is one of the 10 percent, you’ve no doubt witnessed itchy, painful eczema flare ups. Although your parent’s doctor may be able to prescribe something to help with the symptoms, there are also many things you can do at home to help. Here are six of them.#1 Use Moisturizers
There are a lot of different lotions, creams, and ointments available that can help keep your parent’s skin from drying out. Some things work better for one person than for another, so you’ll need to experiment until you find the product that works best for your parent. The Mayo Clinic recommends that people with eczema moisturize at least twice per day. If your parent has difficulty applying moisturizers because of dexterity or mobility issues, a home care provider can do it for them.
#2 Cook with Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that studies show can reduce inflammation associated with skin conditions. Your parent will get the most benefit from turmeric if they consume about a teaspoon of it daily. Turmeric is versatile and works well with rice, vegetables, or pasta. If your parent’s home care provider cooks for them, ask them to prepare recipes with turmeric.
#3 Turn on the Humidifier
Using a humidifier can add some moisture to the air in your parent’s home, reducing the dryness and flaking associated with eczema.
#4 Prevent Scratching
When your parent is feeling especially itchy and nothing seems to be helping, try some distraction. Engage your parent in an activity that will keep their hands busy and their mind on something else. Try a craft activity or play a board or card game. Home care providers can assist with activities and play games to keep your parent busy.
#5 Grow an Aloe Vera Plant
The gel from an aloe vera plant has soothing properties. You can purchase aloe from a store, but growing a plant in your parent’s home will provide an endless source. Besides that, they add a bit of green beauty to the home.
#6 Try Fish Oil
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil can improve eczema symptoms. It is available in supplement form, but check with your parent’s doctor before starting any new supplements. Omega 3 can also be found in foods, such as olive oil, fatty fish, flaxseed, and nuts.
Sources
http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/eczema/eczema_home_treatment
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atopic-dermatitis-eczema/manage/ptc-20341990
https://nationaleczema.org/research/eczema-facts/
https://www.rd.com/health/conditions/home-remedies-for-eczema-psoriasis/
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED-ONE ARE CONSIDERING HIRING IN-HOMECARE IN THE LOOP, IL, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT BRIGHTSTAR CARE CHICAGO. CALL TODAY: 312.382.8888.