Hip fractures contribute to 1.75 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) lost on a worldwide scale (International Osteoporosis Foundation and National Osteoporosis Foundation 2004). The DALYs lost to falls in a Singapore disease burden study (2010) is reported to be 4674 (per 100,000). While the rate of hip fractures in Singapore had shown some decline in both men and women (-1.1 fractures/100,000/year & -4.3 fractures/100,000/year respectively) over a period of 18 years from 2000-2017, the absolute numbers of admissions had increased nonetheless (Osteoporosis International, 2019). As the older adults possess a greater awareness of the risks of falls and fractures, they are willing to take up more preventive measures including lifestyle management and pharmacological treatment for osteoporosis (SG MOH CPG Osteoporosis and update 2008). We need to continue to engage them in active lifestyle post-hip fractures to strengthen, improve their balance and re-integrate them back to the community effectively.
This workshop aims to equip physiotherapists with the necessary knowledge and skills in rehabilitating older adults post hip fractures based on recent research updates and recommendations.
At the end of the course, participants should be able to:
- describe the impact and disability associated with hip fractures
- understand the surgical management for older adults with hip fractures and its implications during rehabilitation
- identify and select appropriate outcome measures to evaluate physical function and rehabilitation needs (as per MOH One-Rehab framework)
- select evidence-based exercise interventions for older adults post-hip fractures
