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Editor's E-Note
Hip fractures in older adults remain one of the most serious injuries impacting mobility, independence, and even survival. This E-News Exclusive highlights a groundbreaking $10.8 million international study led in part by the University of Maryland School of Medicine that compares two surgical approaches—traditional internal fixation vs hip replacement. The goal? To discover which method offers the best outcomes for aging patients and reshape future orthopedic care.
Additionally, read on to learn the importance of advanced care planning, a condition that may exacerbate Alzheimer’s prevalence, and the critical role a healthful diet plays in aging. |
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Clinical Trial Looking at Most Effective Treatment for Common Hip Fracture in Older Adults
Hip fractures in older adults can lead to serious complications, disability, and even death. Traditionally, orthopedic surgeons have repaired a common fracture of the upper part of the thigh bone, or femur, near the hip using screws and plates to piece together slightly separated pieces of bone. But many surgeons now treat these “minimally displaced” femoral neck fractures by replacing the hip joint with a metal implant.
A new $10.8 million multicenter clinical trial coed by Gerard Slobogean, MD, MPH, an associate professor of orthopedics and director of clinical research in the department of orthopedics at the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM), will determine if hip replacement surgery, also known as hip arthroplasty, produces better outcomes for patients aged 60 and older than simpler “internal fixation” that has been performed for decades.
“Our goal is to improve patient outcomes after often debilitating hip fractures, especially among older adults,” says Slobogean, who is also an orthopedic trauma surgeon at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). “Hip fractures are a major public health concern, and we anticipate that the results of this trial will definitively inform clinical practice, regardless of the result.”
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Advance Care Planning Intervention
A study funded by the National Institute on Aging and published in JAMA Internal Medicine examined the effects of an advance care planning intervention in primary care settings. The intervention led to a doubling of documented end-of-life preferences among patients (12% vs 6.6%). However, it also resulted in a slight increase in potentially burdensome treatments, such as ICU admissions (1.1% vs 0.9%). These findings highlight the need for comprehensive advance care planning approaches that prioritize patient-centered outcomes.
Hospitalizations and Active and Disabled Life Expectancy
A study published in JAMA Network Open examined the impact of telemedicine adoption in US skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) during the COVID-19 pandemic. SNFs with high telehealth utilization provided approximately 20.2% more psychiatry visits per resident-year compared with low-use facilities. Additionally, these high-use SNFs offered about 7.2% more outpatient visits for residents with limited mobility.
Why Alzheimer's Risk Increases With This Common Condition
A recent study highlights that sleep apnea may elevate the risk of Alzheimer's disease by disrupting communication between the hippocampus and other brain regions, reports Newsweek. Researchers found that individuals with sleep apnea exhibited altered neural connectivity, potentially leading to cognitive impairments. These findings suggest that addressing sleep apnea could be crucial in mitigating Alzheimer's risk.
Healthful Eating in Midlife Linked to Overall Healthy Aging
A study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and others found that diets rich in plant-based foods, moderate in healthy animal-based foods, and low in ultraprocessed foods promote healthy aging. Analyzing over 105,000 individuals, researchers linked dietary patterns like the Alternative Healthy Eating Index and the Planetary Health Diet Index to better cognitive, physical, and mental health at age 70 and beyond, reinforcing diet’s role in longevity and independence. |
Peace of Mind at the Press of a Button
MySOS Family is an emergency alert app designed to bring peace of mind to caregivers and families. It enables users to quickly notify a trusted network of contacts in case of an emergency, ensuring rapid response without relying on call centers. The app is available on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
Maintaining Bone Health
The Complete Bone and Joint Health Plan by Jocelyn Wittstein, MD, and Sydney Nitzkorski, MS, RD, offers a holistic approach to musculoskeletal well-being. This comprehensive guide combines medical expertise with nutritional advice, providing readers with practical strategies to optimize bone and joint health from home settings. Emphasizing preventive care and lifestyle modifications, the book serves as an essential resource for individuals seeking to maintain mobility and reduce the risk of orthopedic issues. Learn more » |
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COVER STORY
Trained to Care
Many family caregivers step into their roles with little preparation, navigating complex tasks like medication management and fall prevention alone. With the rising number of aging adults, health care providers play a crucial role in equipping caregivers with the guidance and resources they need.
FEATURE
Veterans and Chronic Disabilities
Military veterans face a higher prevalence of chronic disabilities than civilians, often as a result of their service. Understanding these challenges and ensuring they receive proper care is crucial. Explore common health issues, treatment eligibility, and the support available.
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