Many of us assume that people in care homes receive the attention and help they need.
But a recent study reveals a troubling reality: those living in care facilities in the United States between 1910 and 1967 faced nearly double the risk of hip fractures compared to those outside such institutions. Worse, these injuries often led to preventable deaths.
The research was conducted by Madeleine Mant from the University of Toronto, Carlina de la Cova from the University of South Carolina, and Megan Brickley from McMaster University.
They examined over 600 skeletal remains stored at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. These remains came from individuals who had no one to care for them in life or whose families couldn’t afford their burial.
The findings were alarming. About 4.3% of people in care homes had suffered hip fractures, compared to only 2.3% in the general population. Even more distressing, 82% of these fractures in care facilities ultimately led to death.
Many injuries were caused by preventable accidents, such as falling from a wheelchair or tripping on poorly maintained floors. These incidents highlight a deeper issue: care facilities often lacked the resources, safety measures, and staff needed to protect their residents.
The researchers described this as “structural violence,” a term used to explain how the poor design and underfunding of these institutions caused harm to vulnerable people.
There was also a sense of “cultural apathy,” where society didn’t prioritize improving the conditions in these care homes. These problems weren’t just a failure of individuals but of a system that neglected the basic needs of its most vulnerable members.
Although the study focused on historical cases, the researchers believe the issue remains relevant today. Mant notes that people frequently share personal stories about similar neglect in modern care facilities.
For example, in Canada, there have been reports of shocking cases, such as a woman in a nursing home who died with severe fractures in both thighs, with no explanation for how the injuries occurred.
This problem isn’t confined to North America. Countries like the Netherlands and Switzerland have also reported higher rates of fractures among care home residents. The study underscores that this is a global issue, reflecting widespread shortcomings in how we treat older adults and other vulnerable populations.
The researchers hope their findings will inspire change. Mant emphasizes that providing safe and effective care is a fundamental human right, not a luxury.
She believes society needs to hold those in charge accountable and push for higher standards in care facilities. By raising awareness and demanding action, it’s possible to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
This research serves as a stark reminder that the neglect of vulnerable people in care homes isn’t just a problem of the past—it’s an ongoing crisis. Addressing it requires both public awareness and systemic change to ensure that no one suffers due to a lack of care and support.
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