FALLS AND OSTEOPOROTIC FRACTURES IN THE ELDERLY Flashcards
how much higher is the incidence rate of falls in institutions rather than elsewhere?
3 times higher
outline how incidence of falls increases with age
35% of 65-80 years olds
45% of 80-90 year olds
55% of 90+ year olds
what is the most common cause of injury in older people?
falls - 10% result in serious injury
of those who fall and fracture their hip, how many die within a year? and how many no longer live independently?
> 20% die within a year
50% no longer live independantly
other than injuries, what are the other consequences of falls?
fear of falling, self-imposed activity restriction, social isolation and depression
increase in dependancy and disability
impact on carers- anxiety and time
what are clinical risk factors for hip fracture?
low bone mineral density age - every 5 years doubles the risk female low body weight Fhx hip fracture prior history of hip fracture smoking ethnicity - afrocarribeans have a very low fracture risk corticosteroid use medications e.g. psychotropuc drugs
what are some risk factors for falls?
muscle weakness history of falls gait deficit balance deficit visual deficit arthritis impaired activities of daily living cognitive impairment age >80
how can we prevent fracture?
bone protection e.g. meds like bisphosphonates, vit D, calcium, HRT, terparatide, denosumab
hip protectors
how can we decrease the risk of falls?
weekly walks for exercise
education
balance exervises
gradual withdrawal of active psychotropic medication
occupational therapists assessing the home environment and trying to reduce fall risk
podiatry inventions
