Psychological intervention for older hip fracture patients.

ABSTRACT

1. Although there are sophisticated surgical procedures for hip fracture repair, a substantial proportion of patients never return to pre-fracture levels of physical function. Factors that influence the recovery of older hip fracture patients represent important areas to study in order to more precisely predict outcome. 2. Research findings suggest that elevated depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment may negatively affect recovery, while mental alertness, emotional stability, and social involvement positively affect recovery. Thus, hip fracture and its subsequent disability must be studied as a biopsychosocial phenomenon, rather than merely as a physiological event. 3. Older hip fracture patients may be at higher risk for psychological problems related to the traumatic nature of the injury. A comprehensive psychological assessment at admission can assist the nursing staff to determine which patients are at higher risk for emotional distress.