Functional capacity and quality of life of older person with hip fracture at hospital discharge: a cross sectional study

BACKGROUND: In older adults, a hip fracture, leads to functional decline, resulting in dependence in activities of daily living, with a negative impact on quality of life. OBJECTIVE: Characterize the functional capacity and quality of life of older person with hip fracture on returning home. METHODS: Exploratory-descriptive, cross-sectional, quantitative study, with a sample of 102 individuals aged 65 years or older with hip fracture admitted to an orthopedic service in a hospital in a central region of Portugal. Was used a questionnaire that included sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, instruments to assess functional independence, ADL performance, and quality of life. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, version 29. RESULTS: The results indicate severe dependence in performing activities of daily living (Barthel: 61.08); severe gait impairment (speed and quality) (Time Up and Go Test: 85.58 s); difficulties in functional exercises (10-m Walk Test: 77.74 s); and high risk of falls (Morse: 66.53). There is a negative correlation between gait and the Barthel index (r = -0.263; p = 0.007) and the Berg Scale (r = -0.420; p < 0.001); and a positive correlation between the Berg scale and the Barthel scale (r = 0.452; p < 0.001). Individuals with a history of falls had worse scores on the Berg Scale (U = 835.5; p = 0.002), and those who had less dependence had better quality of life scores in the General Health Status (p = 0.002); Physical Function (p = 0.003) and Mental Health (p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Results obtained at hospital discharge are predictors of functional loss in older adults with hip fracture on returning home. Individuals with previous falls and who are more dependent are at greater risk of loss of quality of life.