What type of fracture is most common among elderly women due to falls?

The most common type of fracture among elderly women due to falls is a proximal femur fracture, often referred to as a hip fracture. This is particularly relevant for this demographic because of several factors, such as bone density loss associated with osteoporosis, which significantly increases the risk of fractures from low-impact falls. When an elderly person falls, their hips are particularly vulnerable due to the way they typically fall and the impact forces involved.

Proximal femur fractures often result from direct impact during a fall onto the side of the hip, and the combination of decreased bone strength and the body's changes with aging make these fractures particularly prevalent. Early recognition and appropriate treatment of such fractures are crucial, as they can lead to serious complications and decreased mobility.

Other types of fractures listed—like wrist, ankle, or shoulder fractures—do occur in elderly populations, but proximal femur fractures are more characteristic due to their association with the higher rates of osteoporosis in older women and the biomechanical vulnerabilities that accompany age-related changes in bone structure and strength.