Maintaining appropriate mobility aids for residents in nursing homes is crucial for preventing falls and fractures, according to a recent study. Researchers highlight that discontinuing access to multifunctional wheelchairs upon admission may elevate the risk of serious injuries among older adults.
In Japan, the long-term care insurance system allows residents to rent multifunctional wheelchairs equipped with various supportive features at a low cost for home use. However, once individuals transition into nursing homes, they often lose access to these rental services. Many residents who previously relied on these specialized wheelchairs are then required to use standard, facility-owned models that may not meet their functional needs.
A study published in the JMA Journal examined data from 215 older adults in Ibaraki Prefecture who utilized wheelchair rental services before their admission to nursing homes. Approximately 40% of these individuals had used multifunctional wheelchairs prior to entering the facilities. Among this group, five residents experienced fractures after their admission, while none of those who had used standard wheelchairs prior to admission sustained any injuries.
While the study suggests a potential correlation between the discontinuation of multifunctional wheelchairs and an increased risk of fractures, it is important to note that the researchers were unable to confirm the specific wheelchair models used after admission or the precise circumstances surrounding the fractures. Therefore, establishing a direct causal relationship remains elusive.
This research marks the first quantitative assessment exploring the impact of wheelchair continuity on fracture risks among nursing home residents. The findings raise important questions about the adequacy of wheelchair provision in nursing homes.
Future studies will aim to enhance understanding of wheelchair provision practices within these facilities. Researchers plan to conduct questionnaire-based surveys to investigate broader health outcomes associated with disrupted wheelchair use. The ultimate objective is to support the creation of care systems that ensure continued access to appropriate wheelchairs for residents after their admission.
More information is available in the study by Ai Suzuki et al., titled “Type of Wheelchair Used before Nursing Home Admission and Fall-Related Fractures after Nursing Home Admission,” published in the JMA Journal in 2025. The DOI for the study is 10.31662/jmaj.2025-0194.
