Impact of Aging

Falls are the major cause of musculoskeletal injury among the elderly, with a rate in 2015 per 1,000 persons that was more than twice that for all ages (63.6/1000 versus 29.1/1000). Falls are also a major cause of death among the oldest old, those 85 and over. (Reference Table 5B.1.6 PDF [1] CSV [2])

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While persons aged 65 and older account for only 14% of the total U.S. population, they represent more than one-half (53%) of patients admitted to the hospital with a musculoskeletal injury. Among the 65 and over population, fractures account for 57% of injuries with a hospital stay and 28% of emergency department visits. (Reference Table 5B.2.1 PDF [7] CSV [8])

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More than three out of four (77%) fractures of the neck of femur, commonly known as a hip fracture, were treated for persons age 65 and over in 2013. Fractures of the humerus (upper arm) were also highest among the 65+ population, with 40% treated in this age group. (Reference Table 5B.2.2 PDF [11] CSV [12])

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In 2013, the proportion of hospital discharge patients age 65 and over with a musculoskeletal injury who were transferred to a skilled nursing, intermediate care or other long-term care facility was nearly three in four (71%). This compares to 48% of fracture patients among all ages, and only 14% for all ages, all diagnoses. Another 10% are discharged with home healthcare. (Reference Table 5B.4.2 PDF [15] CSV [16])

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With current average life expectancies of persons in their 40s, 50s, and 60s in the United States well beyond the age of 80, the risk of incurring a musculoskeletal injury, and, in particular, a fracture, is significant.