Falls and hip fractures
In 2021/22 in Rochdale borough there were 685 injuries due to falls. The rate of falls per 100,000 people over 65 was 1,973 (Hospital Episode Statistics). The rate of hip fractures in the borough for the same period was 619 per 100,000 people over 65.
What causes falls and who is at risk?
Falls can happen to anyone, but older people are more vulnerable and likely to fall, especially those with long-term health conditions. Older people are more likely to have a fall because they may have poor vision, a long-term condition or balance issues which may be related to muscle weakness.
Conditions in the house can also be a significant contributing factor in how likely it is for someone to have a fall. They are a common, but often overlooked cause of injury and whilst most falls don't lead to a serious injury they can often cause a loss of confidence and independence in older, more frail people.
Hip fractures are cracks or breaks in the bones close to the hip joint and are often caused by falls or injuries to the hip, but can also be caused by conditions that lead to a weakening of bones.
Preventing falls
Falls in older people can be prevented by improving conditions in the home by removing clutter, ensuring lightbulbs work and minimising situations where climbing or bending could be involved. Doing regular strength and balance training, reviewing medication, having regular sight tests and limiting alcohol intake will also help in this.
Statistics on falls and hip fractures
- Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) - Older People's Health and Wellbeing Profile - the Older People's Health and Wellbeing Profile can be used to examine the health and care of older people. It is designed to support those responsible for delivering strategies for prevention and early intervention to improve the health and wellbeing of older adults and includes data on hip fractures.
Information and guidance on falls and hip fractures
- Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) - Falls prevention guidance - this resource is designed to help commissioners and communities provide cost-effective activities to prevent falls. It includes a literature review and return on investment tool.
- Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) - Falls: applying All Our Health - evidence and guidance to inform healthcare professionals to assess risks, advise patients and families and prevent falls.
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance - older people - NICE has produced a number of documents that cover falls and hip fractures including guidance on falls prevention in older people, assessing risk and independence and mental wellbeing.
- NHS Choices - the NHS Choices website includes information on falls, prevention, hip fractures and treatment.