A new study has shown that mental health plays a crucial role in how older adults recover from hip fractures. This research, published in the Journals of Gerontology: Series A, highlights how better mental health and fewer depressive symptoms can lead to greater psychological resilience in women over 65 who have suffered hip fractures.
Hip fractures are a significant health issue for older adults. They lead to over 300,000 emergency visits and more than 500,000 hip replacement surgeries annually. Worryingly, about 25% of these patients may need long-term care one year after their fall.
The study focused on 129 women aged 65 and older who had recently undergone surgery for hip fractures. These participants were involved in a clinical trial examining the effects of testosterone and exercise on recovery, led by Dr. Ellen F. Binder from Washington University in St. Louis, MO. The researchers looked at different factors like education, cognitive function, mental health, and depressive symptoms to evaluate their link to psychological resilience. They found that lower scores on the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and higher scores on the Global Mental Health Score (PROMIS-GMH) were linked to greater resilience.
“This study shows how important it is to integrate mental health support into recovery programs for older adults. Focusing on mental well-being can help boost resilience and recovery after hip fractures,” said Dr. Sarah D. Berry, an associate scientist at the Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research and one of the authors of the study.
The collaborative effort involved several researchers, including those from the University of Massachusetts and the University of Maryland, who worked together to explore this vital aspect of recovery.
In conclusion, addressing mental health not only supports emotional well-being but also enhances the physical recovery journey after a hip fracture. This insight could lead to better care practices, ensuring older adults receive the comprehensive support they need.
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Fracture, Hip Fracture, Mental Health, Aging, Clinical Trial, Epidemiology, Exercise, Gerontology, Hip Replacement, Medicine, Public Health, Research, Testosterone
