When it comes to vulnerable populations, senior citizens top the list. Whether seniors live alone, in an assisted living facility, or in an adult community, health risks abound. Many people think about illnesses and physical injuries, but one thing that is often missed is infestations. Seniors living with bed bugs is a growing problem. Action Pest Control has tips to help seniors who are battling bed bugs.
How to Identify a Bed Bug Problem
To tackle a bed bug problem, you must first understand that seniors might not tell you they have a problem in the first place. The reason may be embarrassment or it may be that they just aren’t aware of the infestation. If you are a senior who is living alone or in a complex, know that an infestation is not your fault and is not a cause for embarrassment.
It is important to understand that bed bug infestations can happen to anyone, regardless of how clean or dirty their home is. If you suspect you have bed bugs, you are probably right.
Signs of bed bugs in your home include:
- Blood spots or small brown streaks on bed sheets.
- Small bites in a cluster or row on your skin when you wake up in the morning.
- You see the bugs themselves.
- Dark spots on furniture and furnishings where bed bugs have been hiding.
Bed bugs don’t just hide in the sheets. Bed bugs can be found in luggage, dressers and vanities, boxes, pillows, chairs, and couches. You must call at the first sign of bed bugs. They reproduce rapidly, and infestations can quickly get out of control.
The Danger of Bed Bugs and Seniors
Bed bugs don’t pose a health risk, but their bites lead to other health concerns. Bed bugs are itchy. Persistent scratching can open up the bites and lead to an infection of the skin. Bites are usually found on the back, shoulders, arms, legs, and neck.
If the bites have you suspecting that you have bed bugs, it is important to stop the itching right away to prevent scratching. Use calamine lotion or a cortisone cream to relieve the intensity. You can also apply an ice pack to the bitten area. Seniors should call their doctor right away for medical advice about the bed bug bites.
How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs
The next call you should make is to Action Pest Control. The Action Pest Control bed bug control method uses heat to get rid of bed bugs. Heat is the most effective tool for killing bed bugs. If you suspect you have bed bugs, wash and dry your clothing and bedding on the highest heat setting possible while you wait for Action Pest Control to arrive. Don’t be embarrassed by bed bugs. Get rid of them today – Guaranteed! Reach out to get started and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services.