When families entrust their loved ones to nursing homes, they expect a high standard of care and dignity. However, one of the most alarming and common injuries that can occur in nursing home facilities is hip fractures. For elderly residents, a hip fracture can be life-altering, often leading to severe physical decline, loss of independence, and even death. Unfortunately, in some cases, these injuries are not merely accidents; they may be the result of neglect or even abuse.
Hip fractures can be extremely serious for all older adults, and can increase their risk of death by 5–11% within a year. The risk is higher for people who are older, have dementia, or live in a nursing home. For example, one study found that the cumulative mortality rate for hip fracture patients living in aged care facilities was 25% within three months, and 62.1% over the entire study period. The study also found that life expectancy was shorter for patients who were older, with 70-year-old females having a life expectancy of 8.2 years, 80-year-old females having a life expectancy of 4.8 years, and 90-year-old females having a life expectancy of 2.8 years.
Some common causes of death in the hospital after a hip fracture include: respiratory failure, cardiac failure, multiorgan failure, septic shock, pulmonary embolism, and end-stage renal disease.
Why Are Hip Fractures So Common in Nursing Homes?
Hip fractures are prevalent among the elderly because of age-related factors like decreased bone density, poor balance, and weakened muscles. But in nursing homes, these injuries often occur due to:
Unsafe environments: Slippery floors, poor lighting, and lack of proper handrails can create hazards.
Inadequate supervision: Staff shortages, or inattentive, negligent, or improperly trained caregivers increase the risk of falls.
Lack of proper care equipment: Nursing homes may not provide mobility aids like walkers or wheelchairs, or improper or malfunctioning beds without working fall guards further endanger residents.
Medication mismanagement: Some medications can cause dizziness or balance issues, leading to falls.
While some falls may be accidents, families must understand that hip fractures in nursing homes are often preventable.
When Hip Fractures Are a Sign of Problems
It’s important for families to recognize when a hip fracture may be the result of more than just an unfortunate fall. Some red flags that may indicate negligence, neglect or abuse include:
Frequent falls: If your loved one has experienced multiple falls within a short period, this may indicate a lack of proper supervision or care.
Unexplained bruising or injuries: Injuries that don’t match the nursing home’s explanation should raise concern.
Delays in medical treatment: If staff members were slow to seek medical attention after the fall, this may point to neglect or an attempt to cover up the incident.
History of poor care: If you’ve noticed signs of neglect, such as poor hygiene, bedsores, or malnutrition, these issues could contribute to the likelihood of a fall and resulting hip fracture.
Legal Rights of Nursing Home Residents
Nursing home residents have a legal right to receive appropriate care, live in a safe environment, and be free from malpractice. When these rights are violated, and your loved one suffers a hip fracture as a result, legal action can be taken.
An experienced nursing home attorney like J.P. Sawyer can help you investigate the circumstances of the injury, gather evidence, and pursue justice for your loved one.
What to Do if Your Loved One Suffers a Hip Fracture in a Nursing Home
If your family member suffers a hip fracture while in a nursing home, it’s critical to take the following steps to ensure their safety and protect their legal rights:
Seek immediate medical care: Ensure your loved one receives prompt and appropriate medical attention.
Document everything: Take notes of what happened, including staff responses, medical care provided, and any unusual details. Obtain medical records and speak with witnesses.
Report concerns: Notify the nursing home administration of the incident and voice your concerns about potential neglect or unsafe conditions.
Consult an attorney: Contact a lawyer experienced in nursing home matters, such as J.P. Sawyer, to discuss the situation and evaluate your legal options.