Non-healing wounds: the geriatric approach

Area of Science:

• Geriatrics
• Wound Care
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Non-healing wounds, including pressure, diabetic, ischemic, and venous ulcers, disproportionately affect the elderly.
• Underlying physiological (aging skin, immune status, atherosclerosis) and pathological (diabetes, leg ischemia) factors complicate wound healing in older adults.
• Current approaches often overlook the unique geriatric challenges, leading to chronic wounds and reduced quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted geriatric approach to managing non-healing wounds in the elderly.
• To highlight the importance of considering comorbidities, functional status (Activities of Daily Living scale), nutrition, and psychosocial factors.
• To emphasize the shift in treatment goals from complete healing to symptom management and improved patient well-being.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review focusing on geriatric principles and non-healing wounds.
• Analysis of contributing factors specific to the elderly population.
• Discussion of a multidisciplinary team's role in prevention and treatment.

Main Results:

• Non-healing wounds in the elderly are complex geriatric syndromes requiring a holistic assessment.
• A multidisciplinary approach involving various healthcare professionals is essential.
• The focus of care should extend beyond wound closure to encompass the patient's overall health and quality of life.

Conclusions:

• Managing non-healing wounds in the elderly necessitates a comprehensive, geriatric-specific strategy.
• Integrating patient-centered factors like functional status and psychosocial support is vital.
• The ultimate goal is to enhance the patient's well-being and manage symptoms effectively, rather than solely focusing on wound healing.