Abstract

Objective: To summarize recent evidence on gait-related mobility and functional recovery in older adults receiving inpatient rehabilitation in convalescent rehabilitation hospitals or wards after hip fracture surgery.
Methodology: A systematic review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for studies published between January 1, 2023, and December 30, 2025. Clinical and observational studies involving older adults after hip fracture surgery in convalescent rehabilitation settings were included.
Results: Eleven studies met the eligibility criteria, and all had observational study design. Five studies primarily addressed gait, mobility, or walking independence, whereas six focused on functional recovery, activities of daily living, or related clinical factors. Walking independence was associated with post-fracture knee pain, trunk muscle mass and quality, vitality, and admission-based clinical prediction factors. Functional recovery and ADL outcomes were associated with physical activity during hospitalization, sarcopenia status, nutritional condition, heart failure, and clinically meaningful Functional Independence Measure change.
Conclusion: Recovery after hip fracture surgery in convalescent rehabilitation settings is multifactorial and influenced by both rehabilitation-related and patient-related factors. Further prospective interventional studies are required to identify effective strategies for improving walking and functional outcomes.

Key words: Hip fracture, convalescent rehabilitation, walking independence, functional recovery, older adults.