Wheelchair Discontinuity in Nursing Homes Linked to Fracture Risks

Maintaining appropriate wheelchair provision in nursing homes is crucial for the safety of residents. A recent study published in the JMA Journal indicates that a lack of access to multifunctional wheelchairs may increase the risk of falls and fractures among older adults in long-term care facilities in Japan.

Under Japan’s long-term care insurance system, residents can rent multifunctional wheelchairs equipped with various supportive features at low costs for home use. However, once admitted to nursing homes, these services are often discontinued. Consequently, many residents who previously relied on multifunctional wheelchairs find themselves using standard wheelchairs that may not be suitable for their specific needs.

The research, conducted in Ibaraki Prefecture, analyzed data from 215 older adults who had utilized wheelchair rental services before entering nursing homes. About 40% of the participants had previously used multifunctional wheelchairs. Among these individuals, five experienced fractures after their admission, while none of those who had relied on standard wheelchairs reported similar injuries.

While the findings suggest a potential link between the discontinuation of multifunctional wheelchairs and an increased risk of fractures, the study could not conclusively establish a causal relationship. The specific wheelchair models used after admission and the circumstances surrounding the falls were not confirmed.

This research marks the first quantitative assessment of how continuity in wheelchair provision may impact fracture risk among nursing home residents. It highlights a critical area for future investigations. Researchers plan to utilize questionnaire-based surveys to further explore wheelchair provision practices within nursing homes and the broader health outcomes associated with disrupted wheelchair access.

The ultimate objective is to contribute to the development of care systems that ensure residents have ongoing access to suitable wheelchairs after their admission to nursing homes. Such improvements could significantly enhance the safety and quality of life for older adults in long-term care.

For additional details, refer to the study by Ai Suzuki and colleagues, titled “Type of Wheelchair Used before Nursing Home Admission and Fall-Related Fractures after Nursing Home Admission,” published in 2025 in the JMA Journal, DOI: 10.31662/jmaj.2025-0194.