Pressure sores can also be known as bedsores or decubitus ulcers. These typically occur when a patient is bedridden or unable to change positions for long periods of time. Pressure ulcers can become a serious problem for older patients if they are not being cared for properly. Once a sore develops, it can take a long time to heal. Depending on the severity of the ulcer, the healing process can range from days to years. Common areas of pressure sores include the buttocks area, heels of the feet, shoulder blades, back of the head and around the knees.