Fractures can be prevented!

As you age your bones become thinner and weaker causing them to break or “fracture” more easily. The bones that are most likely to fracture are in your hip, spine and wrist. It’s important for Long-Term Care homes to prevent fractures whenever possible.

Vitamin D, calcium, and osteoporosis medications are important strategies for preventing fractures.

Below are 4 more key strategies for preventing fractures.

Using Hip Protectors

Hip fractures are one of the major reasons for hospitalization among long-term care residents. Hip protectors can decrease the impact of a fall on the hip by either absorbing or shunting energy away from the hip.
Resources and Information
Hip Protectors Research

Preventing & Assessing Fractures

A person suffering from a spine fracture may or may not even be aware they have a fracture. They may experience new back pain, have a tired back or  feel bloated. Strategies for preventing and assessing fractures are important for Long-Term Care Homes.
Resources and Information
Fracture Prevention Research

Promoting Exercise & Activities

Walking programs are beneficial but are often not enough to prevent fractures. To reduce the risk for fractures, residents should be encouraged to be as active as possible and participate in exercise programs that include balance training, muscle strengthening, and a focus on good posture. These types of exercises should be practiced at least 2 to 3 times a week.
Resources and Information
Exercise Research

Preventing Falls

Falling is serious and a continual fear for those suffering from or those caring for persons with osteoporosis.  Even a minor fall can cause a fracture and severe pain.  On average about 38-50% of residents in long-term care homes fall annually.  About 5-6% of falls result in a hip fracture and 39% of those who sustain a hip fracture will die within 12 months.
Resources and Information
Falls Research