Pressure Injury Related to Friction and Shearing Forces in Older Adults

The scientific literature describes many physiologic changes to the human body with age. These changes have a significant impact on the potential harm from pressure, friction, and shearing forces on the skin.1 Prolonged stay or immobility on surfaces such as beds and chairs are known to increase the risk of pressure injuries (PIs).2 Most PI prevention strategies target pressure force risk reduction through mechanical offloading, repositioning, and pressure redistribution support surfaces.3 However, the movement of repositioning may increase friction and shearing forces that may lead to PIs if not done properly especially in the older population.4 Diminished skin integrity and increased skin fragility with aging highlight the need for PI prevention strategies to address friction and shear risk reduction.2,4 This mini review of the literature provides a brief summary of PI injury related to friction and shearing forces in older adults.