What is a major risk factor for developing pressure ulcers in older adults?

Prolonged immobility is indeed a major risk factor for developing pressure ulcers in older adults. When individuals are unable to change positions regularly due to physical limitations, they are at heightened risk for skin breakdown. Immobility can be caused by a variety of factors, including illness, injury, or cognitive impairment, which can prevent an individual from shifting their weight or moving to alleviate pressure on certain areas of the body.

Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores or decubitus ulcers, occur when tissue is damaged due to prolonged pressure on the skin, usually over bony prominences such as the heels, sacrum, or elbows. Without regular repositioning, blood flow to the area is reduced, leading to tissue ischemia and subsequent ulceration.

In contrast, high activity levels help to maintain blood circulation and relieve pressure on the skin, while short hospital stays may not expose patients to enough time to develop ulcers, assuming they are properly assessed and repositioned. Increased hydration is beneficial for skin integrity and overall health, potentially reducing the risk of pressure ulcers instead of increasing it. Therefore, prolonged immobility significantly heightens the risk of developing pressure ulcers in older adults.