07/05/2026
How to Prevent Pressure Sores: A Guide for Families and Caregivers
Pressure sores, also called bed sores or pressure ulcers, are one of the most common risks for elderly, bedridden, or immobile patients receiving home care. At Assisted Adult Home Care, we understand how important prevention is for maintaining comfort, dignity, and overall health.
If your loved one spends long periods in bed or in a wheelchair, proper pressure sore prevention can reduce pain, infection risks, hospital visits, and serious complications.
What Are Pressure Sores?
Pressure sores develop when constant pressure reduces blood flow to the skin and underlying tissue. They usually form over bony areas such as:
Heels
Hips
Tailbone
Elbows
Ankles
Shoulder blades
Without proper care, these sores can become severe and difficult to treat.
Who Is Most at Risk?
People most at risk include:
Elderly patients
Bedridden individuals
Wheelchair users
Stroke patients
People with paralysis or neuropathy
Diabetic patients
Patients recovering after surgery
Individuals with poor circulation or poor nutrition
10 Important Ways to Prevent Pressure Sores
1. Reposition Regularly
Changing positions frequently is the most important prevention method.
Bedridden patients should be repositioned every 2 hours
Wheelchair users should shift weight every 15–30 minutes
Alternate between back, left side, and right side
This helps restore blood circulation and reduces pressure on vulnerable areas.
2. Keep Skin Clean and Dry
Moisture from sweat, urine, or spills weakens the skin and increases the risk of sores.
Change incontinence products promptly
Gently wash and dry skin daily
Avoid harsh soaps
Use barrier creams when necessary
3. Use Pressure-Relieving Equipment
Special equipment can greatly reduce pressure on the body.
Helpful items include:
Pressure-relief mattresses
Air mattresses
Gel cushions
Heel protectors
Positioning pillows
These are especially important for long-term bedridden patients.
4. Inspect the Skin Daily
Early detection prevents serious wounds.
Watch for:
Redness that does not fade
Warm or hard areas
Swelling
Blisters
Broken skin
Complaints of pain or burning
Pay special attention to heels, hips, and the lower back.
5. Maintain Good Nutrition
Healthy skin needs proper nutrition to heal and stay strong.
A balanced diet should include:
Protein
Vitamins
Fresh vegetables
Healthy fats
Adequate fluids
Diabetic patients should also maintain stable blood sugar levels to support skin health.
6. Encourage Gentle Movement
Even small movements improve circulation.
Depending on the patient’s condition, encourage:
Assisted walking
Leg exercises
Arm stretches
Sitting upright for short periods
Movement reduces prolonged pressure on one area.
7. Avoid Friction and Dragging
Never drag a patient across the bed. This damages the skin.
Instead:
Use draw sheets
Lift gently during repositioning
Keep bed sheets smooth and wrinkle-free
8. Manage Diabetes and Medical Conditions
Conditions such as diabetes, poor circulation, and neuropathy increase the risk of skin breakdown.
Regular monitoring and proper medication management are essential for prevention.
9. Keep Bedding Comfortable
Comfortable bedding helps reduce pressure and irritation.
Keep sheets clean and dry
Avoid crumbs or objects in the bed
Use soft blankets and pillows for support
10. Get Professional Home Care Support
Professional caregivers are trained to identify early warning signs before pressure sores become severe.
At Assisted Adult Home Care, we assist families with:
Bedridden patient care
Repositioning assistance
Hygiene support
Skin monitoring
Elderly care
Dementia and frail care
Diabetes support
Post-hospital recovery care
Why Pressure Sore Prevention Matters
Pressure sores can lead to:
Severe pain
Infection
Hospitalisation
Long healing times
Reduced quality of life
With proper daily care, most pressure sores are preventable.
Trusted Home Care in Gauteng & Mpumalanga
If your loved one requires professional home care assistance, Assisted Adult Home Care provides compassionate support for elderly and bedridden patients in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and surrounding areas.
If you are searching for:
“home care near me”
“bedridden patient care”
“elderly home care services”
“pressure sore prevention at home”
“frail care in Gauteng or Mpumalanga”
Assisted Adult Home Care is here to help.
Contact Assisted Adult Home Care
📞 076 011 5893
📧 aahcservice@gmail.com
📧 marli@aahomecare.co.za
