Being old comes with its own set of health issues, and broken bones are no exception. Elderly people in Indiana may be more likely to experience complications due to weakened bones and lack of physical activity.
Pneumonia
When a person breaks a bone, they often require immobilization and may be confined to a bed or wheelchair. This immobility can lead to decreased movement and inadequate cleaning of deep breathing muscles, resulting in an increased risk of pneumonia – a severe lung infection.
Blood clots
A broken bone also increases the risk of developing blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis. Blood clots can be dangerous and even life-threatening if they move to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism. These blood clots can form when a person can’t move around much due to the broken bone.
Malnutrition
With a broken bone, moving around and preparing meals is difficult. This can lead to malnutrition in the elderly, making it harder for the body to heal. Malnutrition hinders the healing of broken bones and can lead to other complications, such as decreased energy, anemia, and weakened immune systems.
Infection
Elderly people are also at an increased risk of infection when they break a bone due to weakened immunity and decreased ability to fight off bacteria. This risk of infection can be further increased in cases of nursing home neglect, as elderly people may not have the same access to medical care or clean living conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment of any infection are necessary to reduce the risk of severe health complications.
Falls or fractures
Finally, broken bones may lead to falls or fractures in the future. This is especially true for those living in a nursing home who may be neglected or not cared for properly. Poor hygiene, inadequate nutrition, and lack of exercise can all weaken bones and increase the risk of falls and fractures.
Overall, broken bones can be dangerous and even life-threatening in the elderly due to weakened bones, reduced physical activity, possible neglect in nursing homes, and the potential for developing severe complications. Therefore, elderly people need to take extra precautions when staying safe and maintaining their health.
