Exercise, physical activity, bone health and falls in older people

The consequences of fracture are well-documented, but the most serious osteoporotic fracture is that of the hip. Hip fractures result in increased mortality by up to two years, increased morbidity, and long-term care costs.1 Identification of risk factors enables interventions to be provided to those at greatest risk of fracture. As well as factors such as age, gender and maternal history of fracture, there are other risk factors that are directly affected by activity levels.2 These include the risk of falls, and current activity status. Indeed, almost 90% of hip fractures result from the impact of a fall3 and physically active individuals