A New Model to Identify Shared Risk Factors for Pressure Ulcers and Frailty in Older Adults

Pressure ulcers substantially affect frail older adults, as well as their family caregivers, nurses, and the healthcare system at large. This article uses the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health as a framework to discuss pressure ulcers in frail older adults. Pressure ulcers and frailty are defined and prevalence and incidence figures are reviewed. The connection is made between pressure ulcers and frailty using a model of shared risk factors and these medical syndromes are described as a synergistic relationship. In addition, the relevance to practice is discussed.