Former president Jimmy Carter 'recovering comfortably' after surgery — but why are hip injuries so dangerous?
Former U.S. president Jimmy Carter is in recovery after receiving surgery for a broken hip.
Earlier this month the 94-year-old suffered a fall in his Plains, Ga. home while preparing to go turkey hunting.
According to a spokesperson, the oldest living former American president was taken to hospital where he underwent a “successful” surgery and is now “recovering comfortably” with his wife, former first lady Rosalynn Carter at his side.
“President Carter said his main concern is that turkey season ends this week, and he has not reached his limit,” his spokesperson said, noting that Carter remains in good spirits. “He hopes the State of Georgia will allow him to rollover the unused limit to next year.”
Although a common injury among the elderly, hip fractures (otherwise known as a broken hip) can have serious and often life-threatening complications.
According to research, those who experience hip fracture over the age of 50 are five to eight times more likely to die within the first three months after injury. Regardless of sex, it’s estimated that at least one in three people over 50 will die within 12 months of a hip fracture, with risk of mortality rates remaining high for the next 10 years.
Why are hip fractures life-threatening?
Due to impaired mobility, up to 25 per cent of all older people who experience hip fracture are no longer able to live independently, and require long-term assistance. Increased immobility can result in complications such as blood clots in the legs or lungs, pneumonia and loss of muscle mass that can increase the likelihood of falls and subsequent injuries. Surgery can also pose a serious health risk, raising the risk of infection as well as respiratory or heart failure.
While falls are the most common cause of hip fractures, the health issues that can lead to a person falling can also result in death such as dementia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Who is at risk?
Age and overall health play a significant role when it comes to hip injuries, due to decreased bone density and muscle mass over time
Chronic medical conditions increase the likelihood of weakened bones and potential falls
According to the Mayo Clinic, women are 70 per cent more likely to experience hip fractures due to bone density loss and osteoporosis as a result of menopause
Tobacco and alcohol use can decrease bone and overall health
Preventing hip fractures
Staying physically active to maintain muscle mass can help maintain bone health and prevent falls
Maintain a balanced diet high in calcium and vitamin D
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Use mobility aids when necessary such as a walker to help prevent injuries
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