Elderly who suffer hip fracture may never be the same, says survey
Posted on: 16/Sep/2016 10:30:58 AM
A recent study published by Springer has said that one in every two elderly people, who have suffered a hip fracture, will never be as physically active and independent as they were before. The odds are even lower for the very old and those with dementia or other ailments. Around 300,000 older Americans are hospitalized and receive surgery because of hip fractures annually.
The physical condition and ability of 733 adults older than 65 years before and after the fracture were compared. Participants` functional recovery was measured based on how they were still independently able to care for themselves post-injury in terms of bathing, dressing, eating and going to the bathroom on their own. Factors such as their ability to walk around a street block or climb stairs without resting were noted, as well as their age and health status prior to the hip fracture.
Speaking about this, the researchers said, The likelihood of recovery to pre-fracture level of function was less than 50 percent regardless of one`s previous level of function. The likelihood of returning to a high level of function was particularly low in those who were older than age 85, had multiple comorbid conditions, or had dementia. It is essential to be aware of expected outcomes after a hip fracture, so that patients, families and supportive caregivers can set realistic expectations to meet additional needs once the patients return home. Ascertainment of the patient`s values and goals of care is critical at this juncture in order to optimize quality of life and assist in future medical decision making.
