What is a key factor that contributes to pressure ulcer risk?

Age is a significant factor that contributes to the risk of pressure ulcers due to various physiological changes that occur over time. As individuals age, their skin becomes thinner and less elastic, which can reduce the skin's ability to withstand pressure. Additionally, age is often associated with a decrease in mobility, leading to longer periods of pressure on specific areas of the body, particularly in individuals who may be bedridden or have limited mobility.

Older adults are also more likely to have comorbid conditions such as diabetes and vascular diseases that can impair blood flow and skin integrity, further increasing the risk of developing pressure ulcers. The cumulative effects of these factors underscore the importance of age as a critical element in assessing a person's susceptibility to pressure injuries.

In contrast, hand dominance, prior injuries, and gender do not have as direct or universally significant an impact on the overall risk for pressure ulcers. While they may play a role in specific contexts or conditions, age is more broadly recognized in clinical settings as a fundamental risk factor for developing pressure ulcers.