Hip Fractures Cause Severe Health Problems & Lead To Premature Death


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Updated: September 23, 2018

Hip Fractures From Falls Cause Deaths - Medical Alert Systems Save Lives

Hip Fractures From Falls Cause Deaths – Medical Alert Systems Save Lives

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 90% of all hip fractures are caused from falls in seniors aged 65 and older and falls with injury are the leading cause of death in elderly people. This wide-spread problem can lead to some very severe health complications simply by the lack of mobility that results from the injury.  Since falls are the leading cause of injury deaths among older adults, it is obvious why this problem is so widespread.

Why Hip Fractures Change Lives For The Worst

  • 1 in 5 seniors who suffer a hip fracture die within 1 year of their injury.
  • Most patients spend about 1 week in the hospital after suffering a hip fracture injury.
  • As many as 1 in 4 seniors who had an independent lifestyle before a hip fracture injury has at least a 1 year stay in a nursing home following the injury.

Women Are Most At Risk

  • The CDC states that over 75% of hip fractures occur in women.
  • Osteoporosis can increase your chances of sustaining a hip fracture injury.
  • Seniors, including men, who are over 85 are 10-15 times more likely to have a hip fracture injury than seniors in their low to mid 60’s.
  • Most hip fractures occur when seniors fall sideways onto their hip.

4 Ways To Prevent a Hip Fracture

  • Regular exercise, as prescribed by your doctor, can be very beneficial  when these exercises focus on balance and strength.  Ask your doctor about Tai Chi.
  • Reduce trip and fall hazards around the home.
  • Have all medications reviewed so you understand their side effects.
  • Be sure to have vision checked annually.

Medical Alert Monitoring Systems Provide Added Peace of Mind

  • Central station dispatchers give comfort to loved ones while waiting for the ambulance to arrive.
  • Medical alert monitoring systems can limit injuries by providing access to early treatment by first responders.
  • The best medical alert systems provide activity monitoring services.

It has been proven that early treatment of fall related injuries, including hip fractures, can limit their long-term impact on seniors.  Medical alert systems can help by providing the quick response required during these critical accidents.  If you care for a senior now, you know that it’s impossible to always be there around the clock for them.  If your loved one needs something during the day, and you’re at work, they may attempt to get the item themselves by going down the stairs or climbing a small step stool in the kitchen.

These simple acts can be life threatening to seniors and should be taken very seriously.  Consider a medical alert system today to help provide peace of mind to you and your loved one.