Don't worry, be positive: improving functional recovery 1 year after hip fracture

It is not uncommon for studies examining factors associated with functional recovery 1 year after hip fracture to be presented from the perspective of clinicians or researchers. Few studies have examined factors that facilitate functional recovery from the patient's perspective. This article discusses community-dwelling older adults age 65 and older who sustained a hip fracture and received surgical repair and postacute rehabilitation. Data were collected 1 year after postacute rehabilitation. Content analysis was used for the descriptive study. Participants reported that rehabilitation services greatly facilitated their recovery. Participants also recognized the importance of their own motivation, and noted it was essential to maintain a positive attitude and fully engage in recommended rehabilitation activities. The keys to functional recovery were active participation in rehabilitation and following instructions from care providers. In addition, self-determination, a positive attitude, and social support played significant roles in making rehabilitation work.