How to Prevent Hip Fractures in Older Adults

The Consequences of Senior Citizens Sustaining Hip Fractures

Hip fractures are a common injury for older adults and often result from a fall. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that in 2007, there were more than 280,000 people 65 and over admitted to the hospital for hip fractures. Falls account for more than 90 percent of hip fractures, mostly from falling sideways onto the hip. When people fall because of other someone else’s negligence, they may be able to sue the responsible party or parties for any damages they may sustain. 

These can include: 

• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of wages
• Destruction of property

Shane Smith Law is comprised of experienced personal injury attorneys who are available to evaluate your claim at no charge. Call (980) 246-2656.

How to Avoid Hip Fractures

Hip fractures can be very serious and require hospitalization and long-term medical care. As a result, people at risk for hip fractures must take appropriate steps to reduce the risk of sustaining one. There is a strong correlation with the likelihood of sustaining a hip fracture and age; people over 85 are more than 10 times more likely to sustain one than people between 60 and 65. People with osteoporosis are at an increased risk of sustaining a hip fracture. 

Fortunately, there are steps that a person can take to reduce their risk of sustaining a hip fracture:

• Regular exercise focusing on leg strength and balance. The CDC recommends Tai Chi as a particularly effective form of exercise
• Be aware of whether your medications may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Also, ask your physician if there are any interactions between any of the medications you are taking
• Have your eyesight checked at least once a year. Make sure that your eyeglasses are the right prescription, and consider getting a pair of glasses with single vision lenses for outdoor activities
• Make safety improvements to your environment
• Make sure you get enough Vitamin D
• Engage in weight bearing exercises
• Get screened or treated for osteoporosis

To schedule a free consultation with an attorney at Shane Smith Law, contact us today at (980) 246-2656.