Grant: CIHR Fellowship

Most of us take mobility for granted, but for many senior citizens the reality is quite different with more than half of them reporting mobility limitations. Hip fractures (the fracture of the upper part of the leg) are a common problem among older citizens that can lead to death and to mobility difficulties. The mortality rate after hip fracture is high and full recovery does not happen in more than half of those who had a fracture. Physical symptoms, such as muscle weakness, are related to mobility and independence in daily activities. Yet this is only part of the reality. There are other factors that may play an important role in mobility. In fact, emerging evidence indicates that physical symptoms are highly influenced by psychological factors (e.g. fear, depression) that may increase the risk of physical disability and slow recovery after fractures. The influence of these "non-physical" factors has not received adequate attention from researchers. Thus, this research has never been as relevant and important as it is today given the increasing number of older citizens and the subsequent expected increase in people experiencing hip fractures. The overall aim of this research program is to understand how psychological factors contribute to causing hip fractures in senior citizens and how these factors can also influence recovery. This project will use data from two studies that have collected information from six international sites on older citizens' health. Researching the way in which different factors influence mobility in senior citizens with hip fractures will enhance our understanding of why some people adjust better than others, and will allow measures to be taken to prevent the costly transition to disability. Recommendations from this research will help in developing treatments to improve overall mobility of patients with hip fractures and help them recover faster.