Fractures among institutionalised older persons : incidence, causes and prevention

Abstract

The prevention of fractures in the elderly in an institution like S.V.P.R. regarding diet, activity, treatment and management of such pathologies leading to fractures, rarely taken in consideration. This study explores how the management of residents at S.V.P.R. can be improved. The literature review identified and analysed the medical, physical and environmental predisposing factors - intrinsic and extrinsic. A knowledge and understanding of needs will contribute to enabling older residents fulfil their own needs, thereby allowing them to maintain a higher standard of meaningful and healthier life. A structured written interview was set up to get information whether the residents have had a fracture femur, the site of the fracture, any predisposing factors, whether it was a complication of a fall or an accident, whether the fracture happened in S.V.P.R. or not, whether an operation was performed or not and type of operation, whether the main cause of referral to S.V.P.R. was due to the fracture, and from where he I she was referred.