Experiences with external hip protectors in homes for the aged: a report from Finland.

OBJECTIVE: Three observational studies were performed to examine the use and effectiveness of external hip protectors intended to prevent hip fractures. METHODS: Data were collected by: (1) questionnaire to health centers or homes for the aged to which hip protectors had been sent; (2) comparison of users of hip protectors and control subjects;(3) comparison of users of hip protectors, comparing time wearing versus not wearing their hip protectors for part of the study period. OBSERVATIONS: The use of external hip protectors is a good, cost-effective adjunctive tool in preventing hip fractures. However, improvements in design are still needed to increase compliance.