Another option considered for fall prevention is the hip protector. “Fall protectors are one of several fall management tools, but are a hard sell for independent, community-dwelling patients, especially women,” says Dr. Rose. Their biggest benefit is increasing confidence in patients, she says. Research on hip protectors is limited. A CDC-funded study at the University of North Carolina in 2004 evaluated patient views about wearing a hip protector and found that patients felt the best reason to wear one was increased protection from a fall-related injury.6 A study of the effectiveness of using hip protectors in the nursing home setting found no protective effect on the risk of hip fracture.7
Terry Hartnett is a medical journalist based in Pittsburgh.
References
- Hernandez D, Rose DJ. Predicting which older adults will or will not fall using the Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2008;89:2309-2315.
- Langley FA, Mackintosh SFH. Functional balance assessment of older community dwelling adults: A systematic review of the literature. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practices. 2007;5(4).
- A matter of balance: Managing concerns about falls. Available online at www.mainehealth.org/mh_body.cfm?id=432. Accessed January 23, 2009.
- Li F, Harmer P, et al. Tai Chi and fall reduction in older adults: A randomized controlled trial. J Gerontol. 2005;60A:187-194.
- Li F, Harmer P, Glasgow R, et al. Translation of an effective Tai Chi intervention into a community-based falls prevention program. Am J Public Health. 2008;98:1195-1198.
- Blalock SJ, Demby KB, et al. Seniors’ perceptions of using hip protectors to reduce hip fracture risk. JAGS. 2008; 56:1773.
- Kiel DP, Magaziner J, et al. Efficacy of a hip protector to prevent hip fracture in nursing home residents. JAMA. 2007; 298:413-422.
