The patient is noticeably more comfortable and because he has less pain, can turn easily, exercise, eat and drink. Sociologists predict the over-65 age group will continue to increase in years to come as modern medical advances result in early diagnosis and treatment of high mortality diseases. Many different conditions can affect the elderly, but several problems are considered common among geriatric patients. A loss of skeletal strength, often the result of mineral loss form bones, is one. Another condition common among the elderly is emaciation due to poor nutrition and inadequate diet.
Circulatory disorders are also a major complaint.
Some geriatrics also suffer the consequences of stroke which affects awareness, mental capacity, and contributes to immobility and incontinence. Bedridden geriatric patients require constant nursing attention when placed on conventional mattresses. Nurses must turn the patients every two hours to free areas of pressure in order to promote circulation and prevent bedsores. Flotation support is also helpful for orthopedic problems such as hip surgery. Heated waterbeds offer adequate movement, protect good circulation, maintain proper gastro-intestinal function, help control urinary tract infections and provide for proper kidney drainage.