Riding into the golden years: injury patterns and outcomes of advanced-age motorcycle trauma

Background Our objectives were to characterize injury, complications, and outcomes for older riders after motorcycle accidents due to the rising trend in advanced-age motorcyclists. Methods From 2008 to 2013, injured motorcyclists were compared by age group: younger (0 to 54 years) vs older (≥55 years) in a retrospective review of the trauma databank at North Memorial Medical Center, a Level-1 trauma center. Results Of 432 patients, the older group (n = 100) had more fractures (60% vs 42%), injuries per patient (2 vs 1), intensive care unit admissions (48% vs 32%), ventilator days (8 vs 5), in-hospital complications (16% vs 8%), and hospital days (5.5 vs 3) than the younger group (n = 332), P < .01. The older group was also more likely to be discharged to a destination other than home, 35% vs 18%, P < .01. Conclusions Older riders are at risk for more severe injury, longer and more complex hospitalizations, and higher care demands after discharge. Both age-specific treatment and care systems will need to evolve to accommodate the needs of the aging trauma population.