Hip fractures are frightening for both the patient and their family members.
Depending on the severity, hip surgery may be needed to repair the fracture. The recovery can take weeks or months. Seniors cannot manage normal routines while recovering.
Some hip fractures are the result of weaker bones. Osteoporosis is a health condition seniors cannot ignore. Seniors and their families need to discuss osteoporosis, tests that check for it, and how to prevent it.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition where bone loses density. It’s common in women who’ve reached menopause. In fact, about 50 percent of women are at risk of breaking a bone due to osteoporosis, while about 25 percent of men have that same risk.
There are several reasons the bones weaken. Vitamin D and calcium production and intake aren’t enough for the body to keep bones healthy. Some medications, such as antidepressants like Zoloft and steroids, affect bone density. Some diseases can also impact bone health.
The best way to check for osteoporosis is by having a bone density scan. They’re recommended in women at the age of 65 and men at the age of 70. It’s a scan that checks the measurements of bones in your body. If it is found that you have osteoporosis, prescription medications are used to help strengthen the bones. Eating foods or taking supplements containing calcium and vitamin D is also recommended.
What Are the Leading Causes of Hip Fractures?
A hip fracture occurs when you fall on your side and hit the hip bone. Several things can lead to this. Medications that make you dizzy may cause the fall. You might miss a step and fall down. Ice or snow may cause you to slip and fall. Poor lighting at night and car crashes are other risks. In some people with weakened bones, the act of twisting while standing is enough to cause a hip fracture.
Osteoporosis is an issue. If you do fall, weakened bones are more likely to fracture than healthy bones. According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, when a senior falls, arm fractures are most common. Broken legs and hip fractures are the other two most common bone breaks in people with osteoporosis. Having osteoporosis in the hip more than doubles the chances of fracturing a hip in a fall.
Help Around the Home is a Must During a Recovery
While recovering from a hip fracture, senior citizens need help at home. Caregivers can help. They can take over the housework. They provide support while seniors complete therapeutic exercises. Call a home care agency to talk about these and other services offered by caregivers.
If you or an aging loved one is considering hiring Elderly Care in Hillcrest, CA, or the surrounding area, please contact the caring staff at Love 2 Live Care. Call Today 1-619-291-4663