ASYMMETRICAL LOWER EXTREMITY POWER DEFICIT AS A RISK FACTOR FOR INJURIOUS FALLS IN HEALTHY OLDER WOMEN

Leg extension power deficit and mobility limitation in women recovering from hip fracture.

OBJECTIVE: After hip fracture, muscle strength and power remain persistently poor, especially in the fractured leg. This study explores whether asymmetrical leg extension power (LEP) deficit affects mobility in women after proximal femoral fracture (PFF). DESIGN: In this observational study, LEP of both legs, 10- and 50-foot walking speed, and stair-climbing speed were measured in 43 women, aged 73-96, at 1 and 13 wks after surgical repair of PFF. Asymmetrical LEP deficit was calculated as (fractured/(sum both legs)) x 100%. RESULTS: Between weeks 1 and 13 after PFF surgery, LEP increased in the fractured and nonfractured legs by 100% and 30%, respectively. Asymmetrical deficit was reduced …

Predictors of Falls and Fractures Leading to Hospitalization in People With Dementia: A Representative Cohort Study.

OBJECTIVES: Investigate predictors of falls and fractures leading to hospitalization in a large cohort of people with dementia. DESIGN: A retrospective cohort study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: People with diagnosed dementia between January 2007 and March 2013, aged >65 years, were assembled using data from the Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre Case Register, from 4 boroughs in London serving a population of 1.3 million people. MEASURES: Falls and/or fractures leading to hospitalization were ascertained from linked national records. Demographic data, cognitive test scores, medications, and symptom and functioning scores from Health of the Nation Outcome Scales (HoNOS65+) were modeled in mul…