Angeline Scardino struggled to stand, with help from nurse Jane Ashley, the day after her hip was repaired at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. (Globe Staff / Bill Greene)

Part One Hip fractures a mortal test for elders and for medicine Each year, approximately 300,000 Americans over 64 break their hips -- three-quarters of them women. They are two to five times more likely to die within a year than seniors without a break. And with aging baby boomers, the number of fractures could double by 2040. (By Alice Dembner ) Related articles A staggering death toll, but limited attention Photos Angeline Scardino's broken hip Tell us Your experiences with hip surgery? More Transcript of a chat with Dr. Suzanne Salamon Graphics Hip fracture risks US death rate Repairing hip fractures

Part Two Battling the voice that says 'give up' Rita Erichsen looked haggard at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center after nights of pain, nausea, and sleeplessness. (By Alice Dembner) Related articles Fear can be greatest foe Determination against the odds Distracted from a full recovery Photos Rita Erichsen's broken hip Joseph Smith's broken hip Corwin Abernathy's broken hip

Herman Erichsen despaired as his wife, Rita, fought for breath after hip fracture surgery. (Globe Staff / Bill Greene)

Alone in her daughter's home for the first time since she broke her hip five weeks earlier, Angeline Scardino swept up a pill she had dropped, trying to keep it from her dachshund Symantha. (Globe Staff / Bill Greene)

Part Three Two patients face new challenges at home From her customary seat at the kitchen table, Angeline Scardino gazed out the window on a gorgeous October afternoon. She was home alone for the first time since she broke her hip two months earlier. (By Alice Dembner) More Keeping healthy Photos Angie goes home Rita goes home

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