Bed transfer is a basic mobility skill that is of critical importance to the maintenance of independence in older age. The ability of older people successfully to complete bed transfer can be compromised through the development of both general frailty and acute medical illness. Practical bedding aids can facilitate bed transfer. If the ability to complete bed transfer successfully is compromised, maintenance of skin integrity can be jeopardised, with consequent risk of pressure ulceration. There is a broad choice of pressure-relieving devices available to reduce the risk of pressure ulcer development, to aid symptomatic relief and to promote healing. A holistic assessment that incorporates considered clinical judgment should guide individual choice of pressure-relieving device.