I think your doctor should not have scared you about what happens after a broken hip. It depends on each individual; how old they are, how their body heals, any other underlying factors, etc. My mother is 90. She broke her hip in October; she is back doing her regular activities. She was walking (with a cane and slowly) after a week. Six months out, she is driving (to church, choir practice, supermarket), and is pretty much back to normal, although I now make sure she walks with a cane. The best thing we can do is to get our bodies stronger! My mother does exercises everyday, she is a positive person; I try to emulate her, especially after my osteoporosis diagnosis. Good luck to you!