Nursing home neglect is a problem for some Indiana seniors. It can lead to broken bones, which can present certain complications in elderly people.
Why are the elderly more likely to suffer broken bones?
Elderly nursing home residents are more likely to suffer broken bones. When unsupervised, a resident can wander off and suffer a fall that can cause serious injuries. Older people are more fragile and some have osteoporosis, which causes the bones to become weaker and more likely to break. However, even if nursing home residents don’t suffer a fall, they can still break bones from repetitive motion pressure.
Older adults are also more likely to die from broken bones. Sometimes, an injury can increase the risk of death up to 10 years later.
Common causes of broken bones in older people
Older people are at a higher risk of falls or other incidents that can result in broken bones. For example, if nursing home neglect occurs, they might be in poorer health and suffer injuries including fractures. Osteoporosis raises the risks. Women are also more likely to have broken bones than men.
If an elderly person had a previous fracture injury, it increases the likelihood that they will suffer additional, similar injuries.
What can prevent broken bones in the elderly?
Certain measures can help prevent broken bones in elderly people. Even for nursing home residents, it’s important to get an appropriate level of physical activity. It can help them gain some strength, mobility and flexibility.
Residents should have appropriate changes made to their environment to reduce the risk of falls. For example, installing grab bars or more of them can help.
Staff must be aware of medications older people take as some can have side effects that might increase the risk of falls.
Older people should get medical treatment they need it. Better health choices like a balanced diet and avoiding smoking can also lower the risk of broken bone injuries.
