How Breaking a Hip Increases Your Risk of Poor Health
A broken hip can be a challenging experience for an individual, both physically and emotionally. It can cause significant pain and discomfort and requires a prolonged recovery period lasting several months. Most concerning are these health problems that can arise as a result of lack of mobility resulting from a hip fracture:
Pressure Sores
When a senior is unable to move around, they are at a higher risk of developing pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores. These sores can develop on areas of the body, such as the hips and back, that are in contact with a surface for an extended period. Pressure sores can be painful and difficult to heal, and can lead to serious infections. Assisted exercise helps improve circulation in affected areas, as does frequent repositioning of one's body in bed.
Pneumonia
A broken hip can make it difficult for a senior to breathe deeply, which can increase the risk of pneumonia. Additionally, immobility can also lead to a build-up of mucus in the lungs, which can further increase the risk of respiratory infection. Respiratory therapy is often prescribed as part of a comprehensive recovery plan.
Blood Clots
Lack of mobility can also increase the risk of blood clots forming in the legs, which can be dangerous if they travel to the lungs. There is also a higher risk of blood clots causing stroke in those recovering from hip fractures. Frequent exercise of legs and arms, as well as therapeutic massages, can reduce the risk of clotting.
Depression and Anxiety
It can take up to three months for a fractured hip to heal, and beyond that, several more months before muscle strength fully returns. When someone with a hip fracture receives this news, naturally they'll feel anxious about the long road they have in front of them, and they may become depressed by their lack of independence, social isolation, physical discomfort, and inability to pursue their favorite activities. Depression itself can be debilitating, as it can compound physical fatigue and undermine the individual's determination to get better. Talk therapy with a professional counselor is one way to navigate depression and anxiety, and the encouragement of and socialization with friends and family is another. In some cases, medication is helpful to relieve depression and anxiety.
Predisposition to Future Injury
Muscle fitness through regular physical activity is crucial to coordination and bone density, and without these, injuries from slips and falls are more likely to occur. Lack of coordination can also make recovering seniors fearful of getting around unassisted, discouraging them from performing strengthening exercises and pursuing normal activities. Physical therapy is essential to those recovering from hip fractures.
Are You in the Mesa Area? There Is Transitional Care Available Near You
Everyone's recovery is unique, and the support of healthcare professionals, friends, and family will be critical in their journey. It's also important to understand that, while a broken hip can be a difficult and painful experience, with proper care and support, individuals can regain their mobility and independence and return to the active, fulfilling life they deserve.
Home care assistance from Senior Helpers of Mesa can play an important role in a senior's recovery from a hip fracture. Our professionals offer a variety of in-home care services, from assistance with day-to-day tasks and personal care to transitional care that enables seniors to safely recover in their own homes. Contact us now to find out more about care services near you in Mesa, Apache Junction, Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, and Cave Creek.