Causes and implications of leg ulcers in old persons

Abstract

This dissertation gives an overview of leg ulcers in old persons. This condition arises from venous insufficiency, arterial disease, neuropathy disorders and from pressure areas. The incidence of leg ulceration is on the increase as a result of the ageing population. The aetiology of this disease was looked into and the treatment including wound care was discussed accordingly. Another aim of the study was to investigate the physical, psychological and social implications caused by leg ulceration. A small scale survey was conducted. Ten patients sustaining leg ulcer in Medical and Surgical wards at St. Luke's Hospital were interviewed. The interviews took the form of a dialogue and participants were allowed to speak as freely as possible to express their views regarding their daily experiences. Findings showed that old persons demonstrate preoccupation and struggle against the illness. They experience tension between a defective limb which requires attention and hope of freedom from burdensome body. This affects the relation between experiences of the defective leg with the physical, psychological and social concepts. Hope, Spiritual values and the family support helped the old person to remain positive regarding wound healing and freedom despite the slow healing process. These values helped to recognize the old people's perceptions of their leg ulcers and the impact of these perceptions on their well-being. In this way, the patients were encouraged in the healing process of the ulcer to achieve more personal independence and improving their quality of life.