Residents of nursing homes enter into those facilities because they need more care than what they can receive at home. Older adults are more vulnerable to falls because they have a reduction in balance, muscle weakness and chronic health conditions. For some, the risk of falls is significant. While many people may think that a fall is not a big deal, it can be catastrophic for a nursing home resident.
One of the most problematic outcomes of a fall for a nursing home resident is a broken hip. Hip fractures are especially dangerous for elderly residents because recovery is often slow and, in some cases, they may never return to their prior level of mobility. This increases their dependence on others and can reduce their quality of life. It’s also possible that a hip fracture can lead to long-term complications. Elderly individuals may suffer from infections, blood clots, and permanent pain.
Hips are weaker in old age
Nursing home residents tend to have several risk factors that can make a broken hip more likely. Osteoporosis, which is common in older adults, weakens the bones and makes fractures more likely even if they fall from a lower level. Certain medications can also lead to an increased risk of hip fractures.
In many cases, a broken hip will require surgical intervention. This can keep the nursing home resident in the hospital for long periods of time. A broken hip, along with the recovery period, can take a serious toll on their mental health.
Certain falls in nursing homes could have been prevented. If it’s discovered that the nursing home was negligent, the resident may decide to seek compensation for the financial damages associated with the broken hip. These cases can be complex, so it’s often beneficial to work with someone familiar with these matters.