Wound Infection

Hip fractures almost always require surgical intervention to repair them. After surgery, your senior loved one may be at risk for developing an infection at the wound site. The risk is especially high for aging adults who have diabetes, poor circulation, or suppressed immune systems. 

If the surgical wound becomes increasingly painful or red or it’s draining, warm to the touch, or has a bad smell, an infection may be present. Fever, chills, nausea, and muscle pain may also be indicative of an infection. Incision infections need to be recognized and treated promptly before they spread to other parts of the body.

A professional caregiver can monitor your loved one for complications, including infections. The type of home care seniors need can vary. Some need assistance a few hours a day, while others require more extensive around-the-clock assistance. At Assisting Hands Home Care, we tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual care needs, and the plans can be adjusted at any time.

Blood Clots

The treatment of choice for a hip fracture is often an ORIF procedure, which stands for open reduction and internal fixation. Elderly people who have this type of surgery are at risk for developing blood clots. After an ORIF procedure, the orthopedic surgeon typically prescribes anticoagulant medications to thin the blood so blood clots are less likely to develop. While anticoagulants reduce the risk of a postoperative blood clot, they don’t completely eliminate it.

Pneumonia

Because hip fractures cause prolonged immobility, they put elderly people at risk for developing pneumonia. The surgeon may recommend that your loved one begin physical therapy as soon as possible to increase circulation and balance, strengthen the surrounding structures of the hip joint, enhance gait, and relieve pain. 

General anesthesia used during hip surgery can further raise the risk of pneumonia after a hip fracture. Seniors undergoing hip surgery will be instructed to cough and do deep breathing exercises after waking up from anesthesia to promote lung function and prevent pneumonia. 

Aging adults with hip fractures may need around-the-clock care while they heal at home. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional In-Home Care San Diego, CA, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated caregiver.

Psychological Problems

Prolonged immobility, surgery, and a long recovery process can cause depression and anxiety. Pain associated with surgery and recovery can also cause insomnia, which may further contribute to depression and other mood disorders. 

Hip fractures may also lead to social isolation and loneliness. Encourage visits from family and friends after your loved one comes home from the hospital to pass the time and remind your loved one he or she isn’t alone. If you notice signs of depression or anxiety, such as excessive crying, appetite or weight changes, or aggressive behavior, make an appointment with the physician. After performing a complete examination to rule out physical causes, the doctor may refer your loved one to a mental health professional for further evaluation.

There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional at-home care. San Diego families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Assisting Hands Home Care. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call 858-667-0813 today.