Physiotherapy for people with dementia who fracture their hip
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Functional exercise for the rehabilitation of community dwelling people with dementia who fracture their hip – a feasibility study
IRAS ID
212462
Contact name
Abigail Hall
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The University of Exeter
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 7 months, 1 days
Research summary
Hip fracture is a common injury in the elderly and is usually caused by a fall. Typically surgery is required to repair the fracture often using implants including a combination of metal screws and plates attached to the thigh bone (femur). It is a significant operation and people frequently have other medical conditions making it a long and often difficult rehabilitation process. The aim of the rehabilitation is to try and enable the person to walk and live as independently as possible, however, they will regularly face ongoing difficulties.
Hip fracture is more common in people with dementia and commonly their recovery is more difficult. This may be due to difficulty following instructions, or problems expressing their feelings.
Many healthcare professionals are involved in the rehabilitation of people with dementia who fracture their hip. Physiotherapists often have a significant role in the rehabilitation process, with the aim to try and improve the ability to walk again and participate in activities of everyday life. The rehabilitation process starts immediately after surgery and will continue often for many months in their own home or care home. However, despite this, there is little evidence to help support physiotherapists in the most effective ways to treat these people.
This study is aiming to test the feasibility of delivering a low intensity, high frequency functional exercise intervention.This study builds on a previously undertaken scoping review and the results of qualitative studies to determine what works well to help with the rehabilitation of this population.
REC name
South Central - Berkshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/SC/0243
Date of REC Opinion
14 Jun 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion