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[Longitudinal study of fractures in institutionalized elderly]
P Visentin1, R Ciravegna, L Uscello
1Instituto di Medicina e Chirurgia Geriatrica, Università degli Studi--Torino.
Minerva Medica
|May 1, 1996
Summary
Elderly individuals in care facilities experience a high fracture rate, particularly hip fractures in women. Key risk factors include advanced age, low BMI, reduced bone density, and frequent falls.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Orthopedics
- Epidemiology
Context:
- The study focuses on institutionalized elderly individuals who are no longer self-sufficient.
- A 3-year prospective study was conducted in a nursing home in Turin, Italy.
Purpose:
- To evaluate fracture incidence in institutionalized elderly patients.
- To identify and analyze associated risk factors for fractures in this population.
Summary:
- A total of 46 fractures were recorded in 197 participants (aged 61-98), with an annual incidence of 7.8%.
- Femoral fractures occurred exclusively in females and were linked to advanced age, low BMI, reduced proximal radius bone mineral density, autonomous walking, and recurrent falls.
- Non-femoral fractures were associated with autonomous ambulation and recurrent falls.
Impact:
- Findings highlight significant fracture risks in institutionalized elderly, particularly for hip fractures in women.
- Identifies modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors to inform targeted prevention strategies.
- Contributes to understanding fracture epidemiology in a vulnerable elderly population.