How to prevent pressure sores/ulcers in someone who spends a lot of time in bed?

My mother now spends almost the entire day in bed and I noticed a red patch on her lower back that doesn't disappear. I'm very afraid it will turn into a wound. What should I do to prevent it?

It's natural to feel that concern. Caring for someone bedridden is demanding, and noticing a patch early shows you are attentive — that makes all the difference in prevention.

Why it happens

When the body stays in the same position for too long, the weight compresses the skin against the bone and cuts off circulation. The most fragile areas are the sacrum (lower back), heels, hips, elbows, and ears. Elderly skin is thinner and heals slowly, so a pressure sore can start in just a few hours.

Practical strategies

• Change position every 2 to 3 hours, alternating between back and both sides.
• Use pillows to relieve pressure points and keep heels off the mattress.
• Consider an anti-pressure sore mattress (alternating pressure), often subsidised.
• Keep the skin clean, dry, and moisturised; change incontinence pads as soon as they are damp.
• Ensure good nutrition and hydration, which help the skin resist.

What NOT to do

• Do not forcefully massage redness or use alcohol.
• Do not drag the person across the sheets (creates friction) — lift and move them.

When to seek professional help

If the red patch does not blanch when pressed, if the skin is breaking or there are blisters, contact the community nurse or NHS 111. The continuing care team (e.g., district nurses) can provide home support.

"I started turning my father every two hours, even at night. It was tiring, but a sore never appeared again." — Anonymous carer