Did you know that for every 10 hip fractures, about 9 occur in people over the age of 60? There is an explanation: elderly people are at a higher risk for falling and there are some physical factors that have an influence on the chances of having a fracture. For example, the elderly often develop osteoporosis (in which heredity is an important factor) and we have weaker bones. There are some medical conditions that can also have an effect: endocrine disorders (such as type 1 diabetes), gastrointestinal disorders, rheumatoid disorders, immobility, or nervous system disorders (such as Parkinsons’s disease). Moreover, women are at greater risk as they lose bone density when the menopause begins.

It is not difficult to know right away that someone has broken his or her hip. For example, when people fall and break their hip, they usually can’t stand up, they feel a severe pain and walking becomes impossible. Because hip fractures can have extremely serious consequences, a person who has a broken hip needs call an Ambulance and go to hospital as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, hip fractures can’t be completely avoided but there are some tips that can prevent you from falling. Lighting should not be too dim or too direct and light switches have to be easily reachable. Make sure that your carpet is tacked down and your chairs are stable. Try to get a chair for bathing and have grab bars placed in the toilet. Put the kitchen items that are frequently used at a waist level and use non-slip wax on the floor by the sink. Finally, remember that stairways should have handrails and steps should not be slippery.

Lewisham council can provide you with support and advice to improve your home and adapt it to your needs and get you the right equipment. More info at:

https://www.lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/socialcare/adult/myhome/Pages/default.aspx