Wheelchair Changes in Nursing Homes Linked to Increased Fracture Risk

Maintaining continuity in wheelchair provision for residents in nursing homes is crucial for safety and mobility, according to a recent study. The research, published in the JMA Journal, highlights a potential connection between changing wheelchairs upon admission to nursing homes and an increased risk of serious fractures among elderly residents.

Under Japan’s long-term care insurance system, residents can rent multifunctional wheelchairs, which are designed with various supportive features to suit their physical capabilities. These wheelchairs are available at relatively low costs for home use. However, once individuals transition to nursing homes, access to these rental services is typically discontinued. Consequently, many residents who previously relied on multifunctional wheelchairs are required to use standard, facility-owned options that may not adequately address their individual needs.

The study analyzed data from 215 older adults in Ibaraki Prefecture who had utilized wheelchair rental services prior to their admission to nursing homes. Approximately 40% of these participants had used multifunctional wheelchairs. After their transition to nursing care, five of these individuals experienced fractures, while no fractures were reported among those who had used standard wheelchairs before entering the facilities.

While this data suggests a concerning trend, it is essential to note that the study could not confirm the specific models of wheelchairs used after admission or the precise circumstances surrounding the fractures. As such, although a potential association between the discontinuation of multifunctional wheelchairs and increased fracture risk is indicated, a direct causal relationship cannot be definitively established.

This research marks a significant advancement in understanding the relationship between wheelchair continuity and health outcomes for nursing home residents. The authors, led by Ai Suzuki, plan to conduct future investigations that will incorporate questionnaire-based surveys. These surveys aim to examine wheelchair provision practices in nursing homes and explore broader health outcomes linked to interrupted wheelchair use.

The ultimate objective of this ongoing research is to support the development of care systems that guarantee ongoing access to suitable wheelchairs for residents after their admission. By ensuring that residents can continue to use wheelchairs that cater to their specific needs, nursing homes can potentially reduce the risk of falls and fractures, thereby improving the overall safety and well-being of their residents.

For further details, refer to the study titled “Type of Wheelchair Used before Nursing Home Admission and Fall-Related Fractures after Nursing Home Admission” published in 2025. The official DOI for the study is 10.31662/jmaj.2025-0194.