Which statement about fracture risk after a fall is true?

Which statement about fracture risk after a fall is true?

• A. 1%
• B. 50%
• C. Fracture: 2% hip, 5% other broken bones
• D. 20%

Answer: (C)

After a fall in an older adult, fracture risk is real but relatively modest per event, with a pattern that reflects bone fragility. The best estimates place about a 2% risk of a hip fracture and roughly a 5% risk of fractures at other sites after a single low-energy fall. This distribution mirrors osteoporosis and age-related bone weakness, where the hip is especially vulnerable. Not every fall leads to a fracture, but when fractures do occur, they often involve the hip or another long bone, underscoring the importance of bone health assessment and fall-prevention strategies after a fall.

After a fall in an older adult, fracture risk is real but relatively modest per event, with a pattern that reflects bone fragility. The best estimates place about a 2% risk of a hip fracture and roughly a 5% risk of fractures at other sites after a single low-energy fall. This distribution mirrors osteoporosis and age-related bone weakness, where the hip is especially vulnerable. Not every fall leads to a fracture, but when fractures do occur, they often involve the hip or another long bone, underscoring the importance of bone health assessment and fall-prevention strategies after a fall.