Elderly women with osteoarthritis (OA) have a 20% higher risk of bone fractures and experience 30% more falls than those without arthritis. OA results in changes that include bony overgrowth, fluid accumulation, and loosening and weakness of muscles and tendons; all of which may cause pain/swelling, limit movement, and increased fall risk. An increase in the number of falls is the cause of a higher number of fractures (i.e., the more falls one has, the greater the likelihood of a fracture). To guard against fractures, patients with OA should be:

• Properly assessed for both fall and fracture risk.
• Provided with a hip protector to guard against hip fractures.
• Provided with a bedside floor mat to prevent injurious bed falls.