Bruising result when trauma or a blow to the body damages or ruptures tiny blood vessels under the skin. In most cases, bruising can occur as a result of an injury or a fall, or when people bump into things. Not only are the elderly more prone to bruising, but less force is required to cause a bruise. For example, doctor visits involving intravenous (IV) procedures often make their mark in the form of bruises in older patients, while they may not in younger ones. With greater impact, deeper bruises if the muscles or bone can happen, which take longer to heal.
The medical term for a bruise is contusion. Ecchymosis is the visible skin discoloration caused by the ruptured blood vessels in the tissue near the skin’s surface. If a bruise increases in size and becomes swollen and hard, it may be a hematoma, a localized collection of blood which becomes clotted or partially clotted.
Tips on Prevention:
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Remove furniture or other obstacles to create a clear path for your loved one to move around in their personal space so they may potentially avoid bumps or falls.
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Assist loved ones with sitting and standing if they are likely to fall.
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Discuss the use of a cane or walker with a doctor if your loved one appears unstable while walking, or when trying to sit or stand up.
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Install handrails where possible for additional support.
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Be alert about potential signs of elder abuse.
Treating Bruises
Medical treatment is not usually necessary since the body eventually reabsorbs the blood, and bruises tend to fade away within two or three weeks. Elderly bruising, however, can take several weeks, even months to go away. The pattern is somewhat predictable, beginning with the appearance of a reddish mark as the blood appears under the skin, which turns bluish-black or purple as the red blood cells break down, then yellowish green to a lighter brown before it gradually disappears.
Recognizing Elder Abuse
According to the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA), the term “elder abuse” refers to any knowing, intentional, or negligent act by a caregiver or any other person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to a vulnerable older adult. Statistics compiled by the NCEA indicate that elder abuse is on the rise. Frequent bruising and bruises that appear from rough handling such as deep finger print marks are some signs to watch for. In some cases, the elderly loved one may not remember, or even realize, that they are being abused due to decreased pain perception and possible memory loss.
If you are concerned that an elderly loved one’s bruising was the result of a nursing home or other elder care facility’s wrongful treatment, call Berman & Riedel, LLP today at (858) 350-8855. Our staff will happily provide you and your family with an initial free consultation to discuss with you any questions or concerns you may have and what monetary damages you may be entitled to under California and federal law. To learn more about the firm’s elder abuse and neglect parctice, visit www.preventelderabuse.com.
