Nutrition is often the missing piece in hip fracture recovery — yet it can mean the difference between regaining independence or facing decline. In this episode, we unpack the evidence behind nutrition, or lack thereof, as well as ward-based strategies such as red trays and dietetic assistants. We also highlight the vital role family members play. Drawing on both research and real-world practice, we show why nutrition isn’t just supportive care, but a frontline therapy where families and healthcare teams must work hand in hand.

Links:

‘Hip Fracture – the Cardiff approach’ on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLH4P3rNfQEEswi7nEQQLTyyz7b2XVB4Ez

Frailty in older adults: evidence for a phenotype: Fried et al. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2001 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11253156/

Nutritional supplementation for hip fracture aftercare in older people. Avenall et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016 Nov 30;11(11):CD001880, ⁠ https://www.cochrane.org/evidence/CD001880_nutritional-supplementation-older-people-after-hip-fracture

Reducing nutritional risk in hospital; the red tray: Bradley et al. Nursing Standard 2003 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12677818/

Using dietetic assistants to improve the outcome of hip fracture: a randomised controlled trial of nutritional support in an acute trauma ward: Duncan, Hood, Beck, Johansen, Age Ageing 2006; 35:148-153, ⁠https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afj011⁠

Questions and suggestions? Email: Raihaan.Biju@wales.nhs.net