JAKARTA - Referring to the results of the 2023 Indonesian Health Survey (SKI) which noted that around 1.2 percent of the elderly aged 60'69 years experienced an increase in dependence level. This dependence is marked by a decrease in daily activity to baring tirah conditions that risk triggering complications such as dekubitus wounds.
Based on this data, the Head of the Working Team of the Ministry of Health's Vulnerable Age Health Service (Kemenkes), Dr Ari Setyaningrum, Sp.KO, said that his party continues to encourage improving the quality of life for the elderly to remain productive in the elderly.
"The Ministry of Health has an Elderly Health program, which aims to improve the quality of life for the elderly so that they not only live a long life, but also stay healthy, independent, and actively active in their activities," said Dr. Ari in Jakarta, Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
For the elderly who experience heavy dependence such as leadbaring is very susceptible to decubitus wounds. This is a serious challenge that must be prioritized. Decubitus wounds or pressure injury are wounds on the skin and tissues below which generally appear in areas that experience constant pressure such as heels, sakrums, elbows, to the back of the head (oxypital).
"This wound is often caused by excessive pressure, friction, and moisture on the skin," he explained.
On the same occasion, the Skin and Gender Specialist Dr. Rinadewi Astriningrum, Sp.DVE., Subsp.D.A., said that decubitus wounds can be prevented by maintaining skin hygiene, increasing the physical activity of the elderly, and ensuring optimal nutritional intake.
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"This wound can be prevented by good skin care, especially in areas that are prone to injuries. Nutrition must also be considered so that the healing process runs optimally," said Dr. Rinadewi.
He added that decubitus wounds also have an impact on the quality of sleep for the elderly because they cause discomfort, which in turn can interfere with sleep patterns and trigger other comorbidities such as hypertension and diabetes.
Meanwhile, neurology specialist Dr. Dinda Larastika Riyanto, Sp.N, emphasized the importance of adequate and quality sleep for the elderly in order to maintain overall stability of health conditions.
"sleeping obstacles in the elderly can trigger high blood pressure, uncontrolled blood sugar, and even the risk of a heart attack. Therefore, healthy sleep is very important," he said.
Responding to this, the Ministry of Health also provides education to the public, especially family and elderly companions, regarding the importance of treating and preventing complications from the elderly.
"We provide training on capacity building for health workers, caregivers, and family assistants for the elderly, as part of efforts to maintain productivity and the independence of the elderly," said Dr. Ari.
Indonesia is now facing the challenge of increasing the number of elderly people (elderly), along with the aging population trend.
Based on data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) in 2024, the number of elderly people reached 12 percent of the total population or around 29 million people.
This condition encourages the need for a more comprehensive approach to ensure the elderly stay healthy, independent, and active in their daily lives.
On that occasion, PT Uni-Charm Indonesia Tbk introduced innovations for elderly diapers with 100 percent breathable material or air circulation, to help prevent decubitus wounds and improve the quality of sleep for the elderly.
President Director of PT Uni-Charm Indonesia Tbk Takumi Terakawa said the latest Lifree type glue products were present as a solution to the problem of sleep disturbances due to decubit wounds.
This Popok is designed with optimal air circulation, thereby reducing humidity and reducing the risk of decubitus wounds. We hope this can help the elderly sleep more comfortably and well," said Takumi.
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