A qualitative study of older adults: The difficulties and needs of returning home after hip fractures

Background

Falls and consequent fractures are an increasing problem among older adults, with low rates of return to previous functional condition and a substantial risk of subsequent falls. This scenario points to the need for an improved response to this population's needs.

Objective

To define the difficulties and needs felt by older adults with hip fractures when returning home.

Methods

This was a descriptive and exploratory qualitative study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with hip fracture patients who had been submitted to surgery and who were treated at a hospital in the central region of Portugal. Bardin's content analysis was used to analyze the data. Content analysis was carried out with the support of MAXQDA® Analytic pro 2022 software.

Results

The analysis of the results of the 15 interviews yielded three categories related to the difficulties perceived by hip fracture patients on returning home: functional limitations; pain; and emotional management. Regarding the needs felt, the following categories emerged: resources/help with activities of daily living; capacity-building for the return home; and information.

Conclusions

The needs and difficulties of older adults with hip fractures on returning home are multiple and variable. Knowledge of these aspects can significantly enhance the standardized actions of nurses in this area of intervention, contributing to the improvement of continuity of care and ensuring a safe transition.