What is a significant reason elderly individuals are at greater risk for pressure ulcers?

Elderly individuals are particularly susceptible to pressure ulcers due to several factors that include poor nutrition and decreased circulation. As people age, their bodies often experience changes that lead to a decline in overall health.

Poor nutrition can result from various age-related issues, such as difficulty in chewing or swallowing, a reduced appetite, or medical conditions that affect digestion and absorption of nutrients. Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining skin integrity and overall body health. Malnourished skin loses its elasticity and strength, making it more vulnerable to pressure injuries.

Decreased circulation is another critical factor. With age, vascular health can decline, leading to reduced blood flow. Good circulation is vital for delivering essential nutrients to tissues and for helping to remove waste products. When circulation is impaired, areas of the skin under constant pressure—especially over bony prominences—are at a much greater risk of developing sores because they do not receive adequate blood supply to stay healthy.

In contrast, factors such as increased mobility and excessive activity levels would typically be associated with a lower risk of pressure ulcers, as they promote blood flow and reduce prolonged pressure on any one area of the skin. Adequate hydration is important for skin health, but it is not as significant a risk factor for pressure ulcers