Probability of Hip Fracture After Age 65

Hip fractures are one of the most serious consequences of falls in older adults, with approximately 300,000 occurring annually in the United States. The lifetime risk after age 65 is about 15% for women and 5% for men. The incidence increases exponentially with age, doubling every 5-7 years after age 50.

Hip fractures carry devastating consequences: about 20% of patients die within one year of a hip fracture, 50% never regain their prior level of function, and about 25% of previously independent adults require long-term care after a hip fracture. The average hospital stay is 5-7 days, followed by weeks to months of rehabilitation.

Risk factors include osteoporosis (the strongest risk factor), falls, advanced age, female sex, low body weight, physical inactivity, previous fracture, smoking, excessive alcohol use, and certain medications. Prevention involves fall prevention strategies, osteoporosis screening and treatment, adequate calcium and vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, and hip protectors for high-risk individuals in institutional settings. Surgical repair (usually within 24-48 hours) followed by early mobilization and physical therapy provides the best outcomes.