Why Fractures Are More Serious for Older Adults

Fractures in older adults are serious and can greatly affect health and daily life. Because bones become weaker with age, even small falls can cause harmful fractures. It is very important to understand the risks and take steps to prevent falls and protect bone health. Early treatment and care can help seniors recover better and avoid more fractures. If an older adult experiences a fall or pain, they should seek medical help quickly to stay strong and independent.

At Sri Sai Hospital, Dr. Sribalaji Prabhu T, MBBS, D ORTH, MS ORTH (CMC Vellore), specializes in treating fractures and bone health problems in seniors. Early and expert care can improve healing and help patients get back to their daily lives safely.

Why Are Fractures Riskier for Older Adults?

A big cause of broken bones in seniors is brittle bone disease. It makes the skeleton fragile, so even simple moves - like tripping or wobbling - can lead to cracks. Ladies past age sixty often face greater danger once menopause hits.

Folks getting older tend to heal more slowly since their circulation is not as strong - this comes with fragile bones. Balance issues might pop up due to blurry vision, less muscle strength, tight joints, or drugs making them lightheaded. Things like high blood sugar, heart troubles, or joint swelling can drag out healing time.

Common Fractures Seen in Older Adults

The most common fractures in seniors include:

1. Hip fractures, which are very serious and usually need surgery
2. Wrist fractures, often caused while trying to stop a fall
3. Spine compression fractures, common with osteoporosis fractures in the elderly
4. Shoulder and arm fractures
5. Hip fractures are especially dangerous and can cause long hospital stays and many complications.

Complications of Fractures in Seniors

Fractures can change an older adult's life significantly. Some complications include:

• Trouble walking or moving
• Loss of independence
• Blood clots from lying down too long
• Lung infections like pneumonia
• Bedsores from immobility
• Severe pain and stiffness
• Depression and fear of falling again
• Needing help with daily activities
• Higher risk of death after serious fractures

How to Prevent Fractures: Tips for Seniors

Home Safety

• Remove loose mats and clutter
• Keep floors dry
• Use grab bars in bathrooms.
• Install handrails on stairs.
• Keep rooms bright and well-lit

Healthy Lifestyle

• Eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin D
• Do light exercises like walking
• Wear non-slip shoes
• Spend some time in the sunlight.

Medical Care

• Get bone density tests.
• Have regular eye checkups
• Review medicines with your doctor to avoid dizziness.

Conclusion

Broken bones hurt older people more and take longer to heal. Make your home safe and eat healthy to stop falls. If you fall, feel pain, swelling, or find it hard to move, see Dr. Sribalaji Prabhu T at Sri Sai Hospital right away.