For Families & Caregivers
Family Resources
Practical guidance for caregivers navigating a loved one's fracture — plus bone health education, fall prevention, and trusted external resources.
Caregiver Guide
How to advocate effectively.
When a loved one breaks a bone, the medical system moves fast. Here's how to stay informed, ask the right questions, and make sure your family member's voice is heard.
Be present at every medical appointment
Bring a notepad. Write down everything. Ask the doctor to slow down if needed. You are your loved one's advocate — and your presence matters.
Ask about surgical options explicitly
Don't wait for the surgeon to bring it up. Ask directly: "Is there a surgical option that would allow earlier weight bearing?" The answer may surprise you.
Request a second opinion if uncertain
A second orthopedic opinion is always appropriate for a major fracture. Most surgeons expect it and will not be offended. It is your right as a family.
Advocate for early physical therapy
Ask when physical therapy can begin — even gentle range-of-motion work in bed. Early movement, even limited, helps preserve muscle and mental health.
Watch for signs of delirium
Sudden confusion, agitation, or personality changes in a hospitalized older adult may be delirium — a serious but often treatable condition. Alert the care team immediately.
Ask about geriatric co-management
Many hospitals offer programs where a geriatrician works alongside the orthopedic team. This can improve outcomes for older patients with complex medical histories.
Prevention & Bone Health
Reducing the risk of future fractures.
After a fracture, the risk of another one increases significantly. These evidence-based strategies can help protect bone health and reduce fall risk going forward.
Nutrition
- Calcium: 1,200 mg/day for adults over 50 (food sources preferred)
- Vitamin D: 800–1,000 IU/day — many older adults are deficient
- Adequate protein to support muscle maintenance
- Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can reduce bone density
Exercise
- Weight-bearing exercise (walking, dancing, stair climbing) builds bone
- Resistance training preserves muscle mass and bone density
- Balance training (tai chi, yoga) reduces fall risk
- Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week
Fall Prevention
- Remove trip hazards: rugs, cords, clutter on floors
- Install grab bars in bathrooms and on stairs
- Ensure adequate lighting throughout the home
- Review medications with a doctor — some increase fall risk
- Have vision checked regularly
Medical
- Ask about a DEXA scan (bone density test) if not recently done
- Discuss osteoporosis medications if bone density is low
- Review all medications for fall-risk side effects
- Treat underlying conditions that affect bone health
Trusted Resources
Further reading.
These organizations provide reliable, evidence-based information on fracture care, bone health, and aging.
Medical Reference
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
Patient education resources on fractures, surgical options, and recovery.
Bone Health
National Osteoporosis Foundation
Information on bone health, osteoporosis prevention, and fracture risk.
Geriatric Care
American Geriatrics Society
Resources on geriatric care, including hip fracture management guidelines.
Fall Prevention
Centers for Disease Control — STEADI Program
Fall prevention resources for older adults and caregivers.
General Health
National Institute on Aging
Plain-language health information for older adults and their families.
Ready to go deeper?