Hip fractures are, unfortunately, common for seniors. While physical therapy and other treatments can help them become more mobile again, old age makes recovery harder than it would be for someone younger. Therefore, relatives and caretakers should do everything they can to try to prevent an incident in the first place.

Understanding Hip Fractures & the Elderly

Complications

Over 300,000 people aged 65 and older are hospitalized for hip fractures each year. Seniors are especially susceptible because they often already have reduced mobility, which increases the risk of blood clots, bedsores, respiratory complications, and muscle loss. This, in turn, raises their chances of tripping or falling. Additionally, older individuals have less bone density, meaning that, if they do slip, they are more likely to be hurt by the impact. 

Prevention

Falls cause over 95% of fractures. Prevention begins with creating a safer home. Remove obstacles from their regular walking paths. Pin down rugs your loved one may trip over. Install support bars in bathrooms, long hallways, and in front of kitchen countertops. Automatic lighting can also create safer conditions for seniors. Those who live in homes with stairs should consider relocating to a new house or to an assisted living community.

Additionally, help maintain their bone health to reduce the potential severity of falls. Seniors should consume foods rich in vitamin D and calcium to strengthen their bones. Light exercise will keep muscles strong and maintain their sense of balance. Simply walking around the block—even with a cane or walker—is beneficial.

Recovery Options

To repair a fracture, surgeons typically insert screws to hold the joint together or install a prosthetic to rebuild the joint. Afterward, seniors should listen closely to their advice about taking medication, eating, and resting.

Likely, their recovery will also include physical therapy. This often involves stretching, balancing exercises, and using resistance bands to increase strength while under watchful guidance. They may also suggest activities for your relative to do on their own. While they should complete these exercises dutifully, warn them against doing extra since overstraining themselves can set back their progress. In some cases, it may be better for them to temporarily relocate to a senior care community for the length of their rehabilitation.

Our team at Lakeview Christian Home has served the Carlsbad, NM, community for 55 years. We understand how devastating a hip fracture can be. As such, we create customized physical therapy plans to help seniors recover their mobility as quickly and safely as possible. Our team offers a variety of services, including nursing care, assisted living, and home health care. Visit our website to learn more about these offerings. Call (575) 885-3161 to speak with a representative. You can receive more senior health tips by connecting on Facebook.