Falls among seniors are unfortunately all too common, leading to a variety of injuries ranging from sprains and bruises to broken bones. For older adults who already face health challenges, even a seemingly minor fracture can drastically impact their ability to perform daily activities and maintain their independence. In some cases, these injuries can even be life-threatening. At Assisting Hands Home Care, we understand the profound impact that falls and fractures can have on older adults. This blog explores why broken bones are especially dangerous for seniors and provides helpful strategies for prevention.
How Common Are Falls Among Seniors?
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that one in four individuals aged 65 and over falls each year. This amounts to millions of older Americans who are admitted to the hospital or emergency room for treatment due to fall-related injuries. Some undergo hospitalization for two weeks.
Fractures, also known as broken bones, can lead to fatal outcomes. Falls in the elderly can potentially cause serious injuries, such as hip fractures. Per the CDC, in 2019, more than three-fourths of all hip fracture fatalities in seniors were caused by falls.
How Common Are Fractures in Older Adults?
Fractures are a common result of falls among older adults. In fact, fractures affect about half of women over the age of 50, and one-third of men. The risk of seniors sustaining a hip fracture is greater than their risk of developing breast cancer. This is a stark reminder of how fragile bones can become with age, and how crucial it is to take steps to prevent fractures.
What Increases the Risk of Fractures in Seniors?
The majority of fractures occur in older adults over the age of 50. Several age-related conditions are responsible for this increase in the senior population. Osteoporosis, for instance, causes brittle bones—and weakened bones are more likely to break upon even a minor fall.
Other conditions that increase the risk of fractures in seniors include arthritis and cancer. Diseases of the bone, such as rheumatoid arthritis and Paget’s disease, are additional causes. A history of prior fractures increases the chances of the senior suffering subsequent fractures.
Older adults who do not consume a sufficient amount of vitamin D may develop osteomalacia, a bone disorder that can lead to fractures upon injury. A sedentary lifestyle is also a precursor to falls, as inactive aging people fail to maintain their muscle and bone strength and balance.
Why Broken Bones Are Life-Threatening for Seniors
Broken bones are particularly dangerous for seniors for several reason:
- Increased Risk of Complications: When a senior falls and fractures a bone, the risk of complications increases significantly. For example, immobilization due to a fracture can lead to pneumonia and blood clots, which are often fatal in the elderly population.
- Pneumonia: Limited mobility after a fall can prevent seniors from coughing effectively, which can lead to pneumonia. Pneumonia is a leading cause of death in older adults.
- Blood Clots: Bedridden seniors are at a higher risk of developing blood clots, especially if they are immobile after a fall. If a clot travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening condition.
- Surgical Risks: Many seniors who suffer fractures, particularly hip fractures or broken ribs require surgery. However, surgery in older adults carries risks, including infections, complications from anesthesia, and longer recovery times.
- Recurrent Falls: Seniors who fall and break a bone are at a higher risk of falling again. The first injury can weaken muscles and bones, increasing the likelihood of future falls.
- Prolonged Recovery: Recovery from fractures can take months, and older adults often have a slower healing process due to age-related changes in bone density and muscle mass. This can significantly reduce their quality of life and independence.
How Can Seniors Reduce Their Risk of Fractures?
Preventing falls is the best way to reduce the risk of broken bones. Fall risks are significantly reduced when seniors engage in regular physical activity. Low-impact exercises include walking as well as yoga, Pilates, and tai chi. These exercises build strength and flexibility and improve mobility.
Seniors are urged to check their skeletal age with a medical provider. Ideally, their skeletal age should not be higher than their chronological age. They are also advised to obtain a bone density screening at the health care clinic to assess bone mass and their risk for a fracture.
Modify the home to reduce fall risks and subsequent fractures. Add grab bars to the bathroom to promote stability. Install extra lighting along walkways and stairs. Remove clutter and loose rugs, both of which can be trip hazards. If the senior uses a wheelchair, build ramps in the home.
For tips on how to safely assist a senior after a fall, visit our guide on helping seniors after a fall.
Assisting Hands Home Care Can Help Your Elderly Loved One
Some loss of independence is experienced by half of seniors injured by a fall, while others are unable to live independently at all. When your aging loved one is recuperating at home after a fall, enlist Assisting Hands Home Care for reliable elder care.
Our nationally recognized home care agency promotes the overall well-being of seniors in our care. Professional caregivers are tasked with a wide range of non-medical services to help the elderly feel comfortable, safe, and healthy. Care is provided in the familiarity of the home environment.
Caregivers shop for groceries, prepare nutritious meals, and serve beverages to promote hydration. We give timely medication reminders and provide transportation to the doctor’s office or pharmacy. Respectful assistance with hygiene tasks, such as bathing, toileting, and grooming, is included.
Fall prevention is a priority. We assess the home for fall risks and remove hazards, such as clutter. Caregivers provide mobility support to help the elderly navigate the home and outdoor areas. Transfer assistance is included to safely move the older adult from a bed to a chair.
Compassionate senior home care from Assisting Hands Home Care increases your aging loved one’s safety, health, and overall quality of life. Our licensed caregivers are privileged to serve Westlake, Ohio, seniors. Schedule a free in-home consult to learn how compassionate home care benefits older adults.
