Beware of falls in older adults!

The hip is one of the most important joints in the human body, connecting the torso to the lower extremities and enabling walking.

Falls in older adults (65 years and older) are common and, at this age, can be a significant risk factor for fractures. This is because these patients often have poor bone density, which predisposes them to require surgical intervention, such as hip surgery.

Fractures in these patients can lead to prolonged bed rest, decreased functionality, and a decline in their overall health. Therefore, in addition to appropriate medication to improve bone density, certain preventative measures are crucial to avoid falls.

Dr. Luis Darío Bernal, a specialist in Orthopedics, Traumatology, and Hip and Knee Surgery at Hospital Serena del Mar, offers the following recommendations:

Keep objects that could obstruct movement out of the way, such as low tables, non-slip rugs, mats, and children's toys on the floor.

Use grab bars in bathrooms and on stairs.

Use non-slip mats in wet areas.

Wear appropriate footwear that meets the following requirements: non-slip soles, low heels, and complete foot coverage.

Practice good posture, especially when standing up or getting out of bed, taking a few seconds to ensure your balance.

Use assistive devices such as canes or walkers if you experience fear of falling or instability.

Maintain a good daily exercise routine to maintain muscle tone, coordination, and balance.

If an older adult falls, the first step is to assess the situation. Check the patient's level of consciousness, assess their breathing, and check for vomiting, bleeding, pain, and/or obvious limb deformities.

If so, it is important that the patient be taken immediately to a center experienced in managing orthogeriatric protocols, in order to improve their outcome and receive multidisciplinary care (Geriatrics, Rehabilitation, Orthopedics, Nutrition, and Anesthesiology).

If, after medical attention, a hip fracture is diagnosed and surgery is determined, it is important to take the necessary precautions and follow the recommendations assigned by their specialist.

The main objectives of taking an older adult for hip surgery after a fracture are: to reduce pain, promote early ambulation, and attempt to restore functionality to pre-traumatic levels.