Nutrition therapy can significantly improve survival and recovery outcomes after falls, especially in older adults who are at higher risk of complications such as fractures and malnutrition. Proper nutritional support helps by addressing the increased energy and protein demands caused by injury and surgery, reducing complications, enhancing muscle and bone repair, and supporting overall functional recovery.
When an older adult experiences a fall, particularly one resulting in a hip fracture, the body undergoes a complex stress response that increases metabolic demands. This includes heightened inflammation, oxidative stress, and hormonal changes that can worsen muscle loss (sarcopenia) and bone fragility. Malnutrition often coexists or worsens after such injuries due to reduced appetite, difficulty eating, or pre-existing nutritional deficits. This creates a vicious cycle where poor nutrition leads to weaker muscles and bones, increasing the risk of further falls and impairing recovery.
Nutrition therapy, especially when started early—ideally within 48 to 72 hours after surgery or injury—can break this cycle. Oral nutritional supplements rich in protein and calories help replenish depleted stores, support muscle protein synthesis, and improve biochemical markers such as serum albumin and total protein. These improvements translate into fewer infections, reduced pressure injuries, shorter hospital stays, and lower mortality rates. Combining nutrition with resistance exercise further enhances muscle strength, gait speed, and functional independence.
Micronutrients like vitamin D and calcium are also critical in this context, as they support bone health and immune function. Addressing deficiencies through supplementation can reduce fracture risk and improve healing. Moreover, integrating nutritional care into a multidisciplinary approach that includes dietitians, physiotherapists, and nursing staff ensures personalized and timely interventions, which are more effective than isolated nutritional support.
Beyond physical recovery, nutrition therapy can also influence psychological resilience, which is important for coping with the trauma of a fall and the subsequent rehabilitation process. Improved nutritional status supports better energy levels and immune function, which can enhance patients’ ability to engage in therapy and maintain a positive outlook.
In summary, nutrition therapy after falls is not just about feeding patients; it is a targeted medical intervention that supports the body’s increased demands for healing and recovery. Early, individualized nutritional support combined with physical rehabilitation can improve survival rates, reduce complications, and enhance quality of life for those recovering from falls.