Understanding Bed Sores: Causes, Stages, and Early Detection

Brian Callahan • November 21, 2023
A woman is helping an elderly man in a wheelchair.

Bed sores, also known as pressure ulcers or decubitus ulcers, are a significant concern for individuals with limited mobility. These painful sores can develop when pressure is applied to the skin for an extended period, leading to damage in the underlying tissues. In this article, we will explore the causes, stages, and early detection of bed sores, shedding light on the importance of proactive care.


Causes of Bed Sores


Pressure: Bed sores are primarily caused by prolonged pressure on specific areas of the body, where the blood flow is restricted. This often occurs in individuals who are bedridden or have difficulty changing positions. Prolonged pressure, a key contributor to the development of bed sores, arises from the immobility of individuals confined to a bed or wheelchair. When pressure is consistently exerted on specific body areas—commonly the heels, hips, tailbone, and elbows—blood flow to the skin is compromised. This reduced blood circulation deprives the affected skin of essential nutrients and oxygen, leading to tissue damage over time. The lack of movement prevents the natural distribution of pressure, making these areas particularly vulnerable. Individuals who are unable to change positions frequently, whether due to illness, injury, or frailty, are at a heightened risk. Recognizing the significance of addressing this fundamental cause is paramount in preventing the onset of bed sores and underscores the importance of regular repositioning and specialized support surfaces.


Friction: Friction, another significant factor contributing to the formation of bed sores, occurs when the skin rubs against bedding, clothing, or other surfaces. This friction can exacerbate the vulnerability of the skin, especially during repositioning or transfers. Individuals with limited mobility are particularly susceptible to friction-related injuries, as the sheer force generated during these movements can lead to skin abrasions and breakdown. Caregivers and healthcare professionals play a crucial role in minimizing friction by employing gentle handling techniques, using appropriate lifting and transferring aids, and ensuring that bedding and clothing are smooth and free from wrinkles. Attention to these details is paramount in preventing the development of bed sores and maintaining the skin's integrity.


Moisture: Excessive moisture, a notable precursor to bed sores, significantly heightens the risk of skin breakdown, particularly in individuals with limited mobility. Perspiration, urinary or fecal incontinence, and inadequate skin care can create an environment conducive to skin damage. Moisture softens the skin, making it more susceptible to friction and increasing the likelihood of maceration, where the skin becomes oversaturated and breaks down. Incontinence, if not managed promptly and effectively, can compound the problem, as the acidic nature of urine and feces further weakens the skin's protective barrier. Proper hygiene practices, including regular cleansing and thorough drying of the skin, are essential in preventing moisture-related bed sores.


Poor Nutrition: Poor nutrition is a critical factor contributing to the development and exacerbation of bed sores. The skin's ability to resist damage and promote healing relies heavily on adequate nutrient intake, including proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Malnutrition weakens the overall integrity of the skin, making it more susceptible to breakdown even under mild pressure. Essential nutrients play a pivotal role in supporting tissue repair and maintaining the skin's elasticity. Individuals with inadequate nutrition may experience delayed wound healing, hindering the body's ability to recover from the cellular damage associated with bed sores.


Stages of Bed Sores

Bed sores progress through different stages, each characterized by varying degrees of tissue damage. Understanding these stages is vital for effective prevention and treatment.


Stage 1: In the initial stage, the skin appears red and may feel warm to the touch. It is often accompanied by pain or discomfort. At this point, the damage is superficial and may be reversible with prompt intervention.


Stage 2: The skin now shows signs of blistering or an open sore. The damage extends into the dermis, and infection becomes a concern. Proper wound care is crucial to prevent further complications.


Stage 3: At this stage, the wound deepens, reaching the subcutaneous tissue. The risk of infection intensifies, and medical attention is imperative. Treatment may involve advanced wound care and, in severe cases, surgery.


Stage 4: The most severe stage involves extensive damage, reaching muscles, tendons, or even bone. Infections are highly likely, and the risk of complications such as sepsis increases. Intensive medical care is essential.


The risks associated with developing bed sores are multifaceted and can have severe consequences for individuals with limited mobility or underlying health issues. Prolonged pressure on specific areas of the body, coupled with factors like friction, moisture, and poor nutrition, increases the vulnerability to bed sores. Left unaddressed, these pressure ulcers can progress through various stages, leading to deep tissue damage, infections, and, in extreme cases, exposing muscles or bones. Beyond the physical pain and discomfort, bed sores pose a significant risk of complications such as cellulitis, sepsis, and delayed wound healing, which can have serious implications for overall health. The financial burden associated with extended hospital stays for advanced wound care and potential surgical interventions further underscores the importance of proactive measures in preventing bed sores.


Early Detection and Prevention


Regular Skin Checks: Routine skin assessments are crucial, especially for individuals with limited mobility. Look for signs of redness, discoloration, or changes in skin texture.


Position Changes: Encourage frequent changes in position to alleviate pressure on vulnerable areas. This is particularly important for those confined to a bed or wheelchair.


Support Surfaces: Invest in pressure-relieving mattresses and cushions. These specialized surfaces help distribute pressure evenly, reducing the risk of bed sores.


Hygiene and Nutrition: Maintain good hygiene practices to keep the skin clean and dry. Additionally, ensure a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients to support overall skin health.


For caregivers, the prevention and early detection of bed sores are of paramount importance as they directly impact the quality of life and well-being of their care recipients. Bed sores can escalate rapidly, leading to pain, prolonged suffering, and a decline in overall health. Caregivers play a pivotal role in implementing preventive measures such as regular repositioning, managing moisture, ensuring proper nutrition, and maintaining vigilant skin assessments. Timely detection of early-stage bed sores is equally critical, as prompt intervention can prevent progression to more severe and complex conditions, reducing the risk of complications and the need for intensive medical interventions. Caregivers must be attentive to changes in the skin, collaborate with healthcare professionals, and provide compassionate, personalized care. At 7 Day Home Care, we recognize the significance of proactive bed sore prevention and detection, incorporating these measures into our home health aide services in Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York, to ensure the well-being and comfort of those under our care.


Effectively healing bed sores requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the underlying causes and the specific needs of the affected individual. The first step is to relieve pressure on the affected area by using specialized support surfaces like pressure-relieving mattresses and cushions. Proper wound care is crucial, involving regular cleaning with mild solutions, application of appropriate dressings, and, in some cases, advanced therapies like negative pressure wound therapy. Optimal nutrition plays a pivotal role, as a well-balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals supports tissue repair. Collaborating with healthcare professionals, including wound care specialists, is essential to tailor a treatment plan based on the severity of the bed sore. Additionally, maintaining meticulous hygiene practices, managing moisture, and promoting overall skin health contribute significantly to the healing process.


The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. It is not a substitute for consultation with qualified healthcare professionals. Individual circumstances vary, and specific medical conditions may require tailored interventions. Readers are encouraged to seek the advice of healthcare professionals for personalized guidance on prevention, detection, and treatment of bed sores or any other health-related concerns.


Bed sores pose a significant threat to individuals with limited mobility, but with proactive measures and early detection, their impact can be minimized. It is crucial for caregivers and healthcare professionals to work together in providing comprehensive care to prevent the development and progression of bed sores. At 7 Day Home Care, we understand the importance of attentive home health aide services in Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York, ensuring that individuals receive the care they need to maintain optimal skin health and overall well-being. Contact 7 Day Home Care today at 516-408-0034 to learn more about our Home Health Aide in-home care services throughout NYC and Long Island, New York.


Brian Callahan

7 Day Home Care


older woman needs help navigating her American heritage long term care insurance policy claim

7 Day Home Care Accepts American Heritage Long Term Care Insurance

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • June 13, 2025
7 Day Home Care Accepts American Heritage Long Term Care Insurance 7 Day Home Care is a leading home care provider for long-term care insurance policyholders, including those with American Heritage coverage. We focus on person-centered care that honors each client’s individual needs, preferences, and routines. Our team goes beyond basic assistance by carefully matching clients with caregivers who are not only trained and certified, but also compatible in personality, language, and cultural understanding—ensuring a more meaningful and trusting care relationship.
diabetes causes headaches and dizziness

What are the Top 15 Symptoms of Diabetes?

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • June 9, 2025
People Ask What are the Top 15 Symptoms of Diabetes? The 15 t op symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst, increased hunger, unexplained weight loss, fatigue or extreme tiredness, blurred vision, slow-healing sores or cuts, frequent infections, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, dry or itchy skin, dark patches of skin (especially in folds or creases), irritability or mood changes, sexual dysfunction, recurring yeast infections, and headaches or brain fog. Not everyone will experience all of these symptoms, but noticing even a few may be an early warning sign that blood sugar levels are out of balance and should be checked by a healthcare provider. Recognizing the early symptoms of diabetes is crucial because it allows for timely diagnosis, early treatment, and the prevention of serious complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, vision loss, and nerve damage. Many signs - like frequent urination, fatigue, or blurred vision—can be overlooked or misattributed to aging or stress, delaying care and increasing health risks. By paying attention to these warning signs and seeking medical guidance early, individuals can better manage their blood sugar levels, make informed lifestyle changes, and significantly reduce the likelihood of long-term damage. Early detection is not just about treatment - it's about preserving quality of life and avoiding irreversible health outcomes. 7 Day Home Care provides low cost private pay in-home care services throughout NYC - Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , and Long Island , New York. To learn more about our home health aide care services for individuals with diabetes, please call 516-408-0034 to schedule your free consultation.
7 day home care is the #1 home care agency approved by metlife long term care insurance

7 Day Home Care Accepts MetLife Long Term Care Insurance

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • June 5, 2025
7 Day Home Care Accepts MetLife Long Term Care Insurance Choosing a home care agency with deep experience in MetLife Long Term Care Insurance claims gives families unmatched peace of mind and confidence. At 7 Day Home Care, we’ve spent years successfully providing home health aide services approved by MetLife, helping clients and their families maximize benefits while receiving exceptional in-home care. Our expertise in interpreting MetLife policy terms, coordinating required documentation, and meeting eligibility criteria ensures that care is not only high quality, but also fully aligned with insurance requirements. Families trust us because we simplify the process—from benefit verification to claim submission—while delivering compassionate, personalized support that meets both emotional and medical needs. When it comes to trusted, MetLife-approved home care in New York, 7 Day Home Care is the agency of choice.

The Hidden Dangers of Sugar

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • June 2, 2025
The Hidden Dangers of Sugar - Is Sugar Bad for You? Yes, sugar can be harmful when consumed in excess. While small amounts of sugar are not inherently bad, too much added or refined sugar is linked to serious health risks, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and inflammation. What counts as "moderation" varies from person to person, as individual factors like age, metabolism, activity level, and existing health conditions all affect how the body processes sugar. This means the same amount of sugar can impact people differently, making it important to monitor intake based on personal health needs. How Do I Know if My Sugar Intake is Too Much or Problematic? You can determine whether your sugar intake is moderate or problematic by paying attention to both your body’s signals and your overall dietary patterns. If you experience signs such as increased hunger, weight gain, irritability, fatigue, digestive discomfort, frequent headaches, or persistent cravings for sweets, these may indicate excessive sugar consumption. Additionally, if added sugars are displacing nutrient-rich foods in your diet, or if you notice symptoms like frequent urination, increased thirst, or trouble concentrating, it could be a sign that your sugar intake is too high. While the human body needs some form of glucose for energy, consuming too much added sugar—the kind found in soda, candy, baked goods, and many processed foods—can have serious health consequences. Numerous studies have linked high sugar intake to obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, and cognitive decline, especially when consumed regularly over time. Unlike natural sugars found in fruits and dairy, added sugars provide empty calories with no essential nutrients, which can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and chronic inflammation - factors that significantly increase disease risk. For example, a landmark study published in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2014 titled: “Added Sugar Intake and Cardiovascular Diseases Mortality Among US Adults” shows that individuals who consume 17–21% of their daily calories from added sugars have a 38% higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease compared to those who limit intake to 8% or less. Excess sugar can also disrupt hunger hormones, cause energy crashes, and accelerate aging through oxidative stress and cellular damage. Most health authorities - including the CDC and American Heart Association—recommend that adults consume no more than 6–9 teaspoons of added sugar per day, yet the average American consumes nearly three times that amount. In summary, excessive intake of sugar is clearly linked to multiple chronic conditions and should be limited for optimal health and longevity.
Sepsis is life altering and recovery for the elderly is extremely challenging.

What Is the Life Expectancy After Sepsis?

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • May 27, 2025
What is the Life Expectancy After Sepsis? Life expectancy after sepsis depends on factors like age, overall health, organ damage, and how quickly treatment began, with many survivors facing lasting effects known as post-sepsis syndrome—such as fatigue, memory issues, and recurring infections. In-home care can make a life-changing difference by providing daily support, medication management, and personalized rehabilitation that helps rebuild strength, restore independence, and improve long-term quality of life. When there is no support at home after sepsis, survivors often struggle to manage the complex aftermath of the illness, which can include fatigue, cognitive decline, weakened immunity, chronic pain, and mobility issues. Without consistent care and monitoring, these individuals are at higher risk of hospital readmission, complications from missed medications or untreated infections, and a decline in both physical and mental health. The lack of structured rehabilitation and emotional support can accelerate deterioration, increase the likelihood of additional medical crises, and significantly reduce overall life expectancy. A supportive home care environment is often critical to stabilizing health, regaining function, and preventing a downward spiral that unmanaged post-sepsis symptoms can trigger. A highly trained and experienced home health aide from a trusted home care agency like 7 Day Home Care can make a life-saving difference for individuals recovering from sepsis. These professionals are not only equipped to assist with essential daily tasks like bathing, mobility, medication reminders, and meal preparation—they are also trained to recognize early warning signs of infection, understand complex care routines, and provide emotional reassurance that helps reduce stress-related health risks. With compassionate and culturally sensitive care, a dedicated home health aide brings structure, stability, and clinical oversight into the home environment—elements that are especially critical in the vulnerable months following a sepsis episode. Families across NYC, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island rely on 7 Day Home Care’s certified aides to extend life after sepsis by promoting safety, independence, and long-term wellness right at home.  7 Day Home Care provides low cost private pay in-home care services and is an approved provider under many insurance policies, including your long term care insurance policy - throughout NYC - Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , and Long Island , New York. To learn more about our award winning home health aide care services for in-home Alzheimer's and dementia care, please call 516-408-0034 to schedule your free consultation.
it is common for people with dementia to be afraid of showering or bathing

Why Do Alzheimer's and Dementia Patients Refuse to Take Showers?

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • May 23, 2025
Why do Alzheimer's and Dementia Patients Refuse to Take Showers? Many elderly loved ones with dementia become afraid or resistant to bathing or showering due to a combination of cognitive decline, sensory sensitivity, and emotional vulnerability. For individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, the bathroom can feel unfamiliar and threatening—bright lights, echoes, running water, and changes in temperature may trigger anxiety or confusion. They may not recognize the need to bathe or understand what’s happening, which can lead to resistance or fear. In some cases, the act of undressing or being helped by another person feels embarrassing or invasive, especially if modesty has always been important to them. Others may associate the shower with past negative experiences, such as a fall, making them fearful of injury. This resistance is not stubbornness—it’s often a protective response rooted in genuine fear or confusion. Caregivers must approach bathing with empathy, patience, and flexibility, understanding that the behavior is part of the disease process, not a personal refusal.
home care services reduces fall risks for the elderly

The #1 Injury in Seniors Is Falling—Here's How to Prevent It

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • May 19, 2025
The #1 Injury in Seniors is Falling - Here's How to Prevent It A fall can mark a pivotal turning point in the lifestyle and long-term health of an elderly loved one. What often starts as a minor slip can initiate a rapid decline—physically, emotionally, and socially. After a fall, many seniors face restricted mobility, leading to muscle loss, joint stiffness, and increased frailty. This reduced physical function limits their ability to perform everyday tasks such as bathing, cooking, and walking, making them more dependent on family or caregivers. Emotionally, a fall often instills a lasting fear of falling again, which causes seniors to withdraw from daily routines, social engagement, and physical activity—accelerating isolation and cognitive decline. Over time, this creates a self-reinforcing cycle of deconditioning, depression, and heightened fall risk. Without early intervention, even an initially non-serious fall can escalate into a permanent loss of independence or the need for full-time care. Families searching for solutions to protect aging parents or grandparents from this downward spiral often turn to in-home care providers, home safety modifications, and daily supervision to ensure their loved ones can age in place safely and confidently. Proactive fall prevention isn’t just about avoiding injury—it’s about preserving quality of life, functional independence, and peace of mind.
7 day home care accepts insurance for home care services

Does Insurance Cover Home Care? Everything Families Need to Know Today

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • May 14, 2025
Does Insurance Cover Home Care? Everything Families Need to Know Today Navigating insurance coverage for home care services can be incredibly confusing for families, especially when trying to distinguish between what is covered under Medicare, Medicaid, private health insurance, and long-term care policies. Many people assume that all types of in-home support—such as help with bathing, dressing, cooking, or companionship—are automatically covered by their insurance, only to discover that most standard health plans cover only short-term, medically necessary services and not ongoing, non-medical care. This confusion can lead to delays in care or unexpected out-of-pocket expenses at a time when families are already under stress. Adding to the complexity, each insurance type has its own eligibility rules, approved provider lists, and definitions of what qualifies as “necessary care.” At 7 Day Home Care, we regularly work with families to demystify this process -reviewing individual policies, coordinating with insurance companies, and helping clients determine which services are covered, which require private pay, and how to maximize available benefits to ensure their loved ones receive the compassionate, dependable care they need. 7 Day Home Care provides private pay in-home care services and is an approved provider under many insurance policies, including your long term care insurance policy, and workers compensation policy - throughout NYC - Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , and Long Island , New York. To learn more about best home health aide care services, please call 516-408-0034.
home health aides promote longevity for seniors through daily support at home

Home Care and Longevity: Helping Seniors Live Longer at Home

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • May 12, 2025
7 Day Home Care proudly delivers expert longevity-focused home care services across NYC, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island, New York, helping seniors live longer, healthier lives at home. Our experienced, multilingual caregivers are trained in evidence-based practices that support both lifespan and health span - focusing on nutrition, mobility, cognitive stimulation, stress reduction, and companionship. Whether providing 24-hour in-home assistance, dementia care, or post-surgery recovery, we tailor every care plan to the unique needs and cultural preferences of each client. Families in neighborhoods from the Upper East Side and Forest Hills to Park Slope and Garden City trust 7 Day Home Care for our compassionate approach, seamless long-term care insurance support, and commitment to promoting aging in place with dignity, safety, and purpose. As the top private pay and insurance-approved home care agency in the region, we are dedicated to being your partner in senior longevity and independence. Are you searching for the top private pay home care agency near you? 7 Day Home Care provides private pay in-home care services and is a approved provider under your long term care insurance policy throughout NYC, Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , and Long Island, New York. To learn more about home health aide care services, please call 516-408-0034.
caregiver assisting elderly woman with early stage alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer’s Home Care: When, Why, and How to Start

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • May 5, 2025
Skilled, experienced in-home care for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease provides a constellation of invaluable benefits that extend far beyond basic assistance with daily activities. Trained dementia caregivers create a sanctuary of familiarity where cognitive landmarks remain intact, significantly reducing the disorientation and anxiety that often accompany relocation to institutional settings. These professionals develop deep, nuanced understandings of their clients' unique communication styles, preferences, and triggers—insights that allow them to anticipate needs before they escalate into distress. This personalized approach enables caregivers to implement subtle environmental modifications and tailored interventions precisely calibrated to the individual's changing cognitive abilities throughout disease progression. Furthermore, competent in-home care preserves the irreplaceable dignity of established relationships and routines, allowing your loved one to remain surrounded by meaningful possessions and memories that anchor their sense of identity even as cognitive function declines. Perhaps most significantly, professional in-home care transforms family members from exhausted primary caregivers into cherished companions again, restoring the emotional connection that dementia so often threatens to erode. Are you searching for an Alzheimer's home care agency near you? 7 Day Home Care provides Alzheimer's in-home care services throughout NYC, Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , and Long Island, New York. To learn more about our highly experienced Alzheimer's home health aide care services, please call 516-408-0034.
Show More