When you take a fall, you are subject to potential injury—including serious injury like a broken hip. Falls regularly happen due to negligent care of hazardous walkways. Such hazards can include wet and slippery conditions, inadequate lighting, cracked and uneven walking surfaces, and walkway obstacles and debris. While many injuries can result from a fall, older adults are especially at risk of breaking a hip in this type of accident.
A Broken Hip
A fracture or break of the hip is a very serious injury, and those older than 65 are especially prone to prolong and difficult recoveries from these injuries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, furthermore, provides some sobering statistics as they relate to falls and broken hips:- Falls—most often sideways falls—cause more than 95 percent of all broken hips.
- Each year, about 300,000 people ages 65 and older are hospitalized for broken hips.
- As you age, your chances of suffering from a hip fracture increase.
- Women fall more often than men, are also more susceptible to osteoporosis (fragile, brittle bones resulting from tissue loss), and therefore account for about 75 percent of all broken hips.
The Consequences of a Broken Hip
Even if you’re a young and otherwise healthy adult, a broken hip is an extremely serious injury that can lead to further health risks. Your hip joint is instrumental in your ability to walk and move your body. As such, a broken hip will likely immobilize you and necessitate surgical repair or even a full or partial hip replacement. Furthermore, serious complications often accompany a broken hip, including:- Diminished independence
- Long-term mobility issues
- Shortened life expectancy for elderly victims
- Diminished strength in bones and joints
