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Tips for Reducing the Risk of Developing DVT 

March 16, 2018
Jack Nicol
Deebigstock-Diagnostic-form-with-Diagnosis-92243846.jpgp vein thrombosis, blood clots that occur in the deep veins of the body, most often in the legs, can be a very serious condition for your elderly parent. As a family caregiver it is extremely important that you take the proper steps to reduce the risk of your parent developing DVT so that they can stay healthier and safer as they age in place. It is particularly important to review these tips if they will be experiencing any extended period of sitting or lying down in the near future. This can include traveling, illness, injury, or surgery. 

Tips to reduce the risk of developing DVT include:
  • Know their individual risk factors so that you can address them effectively. This includes knowing their family history.
  • Talk to your parent's doctor any time that they might need an extended period of sitting or lying down, such as after a surgery. Ask for recommendations for how to reduce this risk during this time.
  • If your parent is overweight or obese, encourage them to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight.
  • If your parent smokes, encourage them to quit. Every day that they smoke causes a higher risk and the risk decreases as soon as they quit.
  • Make sure that your parent gets up and moves around every two hours. If they are unable to get up, at least encourage them to move their legs and stretch their muscles.
  • If your parent will be traveling by car, plan stops for them to get out and move around.
  • Ask their doctor about the use of compression stockings to help keep the blood moving through their legs.

Making the decision to be a family caregiver for your aging parent can be one of the most meaningful choices you ever make. This is a way for you to show love and respect to your parent, and to ensure that they are getting all that they need to manage their challenges and limitations in effective, meaningful, fulfilling ways. The responsibilities of caring for your parent, however, can be stressful and, at times, overwhelming. Fortunately, you do not have to feel as though you are alone. Home care can be there for you. Starting care for your parent means that an in-home care provider can be with your parent to fill care gaps, offer support and companionship, manage sensitive care tasks, and work with you to create a care routine that is right for your senior as an individual. This can give both of you tremendous peace of mind and confidence as they age in place. 

If you or an aging loved one are considering caregivers in Juno Beach, FL, contact the caring staff at BrightStar Care of Jupiter. Call today (561) 741-1200.