How Seniors Can Prevent Osteoporosis
Let’s take a closer look at Osteoporosis, what it is, and how seniors can practice self-care to prevent it, and keep their bones as strong as possible.
Self-Care and Nutritional Tips for Stronger Bones
In the United States, over ten million people over the age of 50 have Osteoporosis. According to the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation, the disease causes two hundred fractures annually.
Let’s take a closer look at Osteoporosis, what it is, and how seniors can practice self-care to prevent it, and keep their bones as strong as possible.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a medical condition that weakens bones, making them vulnerable to fracturing. The disease is progressive, and worsens over time. Postmenopausal women are particularly at risk to be affected by it.
Normally, osteoporosis is only diagnosed after a senior falls, or experiences a physical impact that causes a broken bone. In its early stages, there are no signs of the disease, and it can go undetected for many years. Osteoporosis often affects the hips, wrist, or spine.
Osteoporosis Self-Care Guidelines
Maintaining healthy bones is critical for all seniors, regardless of age. Fractures, particularly of the hips, are one of the leading causes of rapid decline in older people. The skeletal system plays a crucial role in seniors’ ability to stay mobile, and maintain overall good health.
Here are some ways older people can help prevent, or minimize the effects of Osteoporosis.
Bone Density Tests
A bone density test measures the strength of a person’s bones, providing insights into overall bone health and identifying cases of low bone density. This test is essential for determining the risk of future fractures, particularly in areas like the spine. Knowing your bone density is essential as you age, as bone density test results can guide targeted exercises to strengthen bones, particularly in the spine.
Avoiding Smoking & Excessive Alcohol
Smoking has been proven to be detrimental to bone health. While a senior doesn’t have to give up drinking alcohol to maintain strong bones, it should always be consumed in moderation.
Combining Diet, Vitamins Supplements, and Exercise for Long-Term Bone Health
Regular exercise, aligned to a person’s fitness level, is a great way to keep bones as strong as possible. Seniors can work with their doctor to determine the best activities to pursue, including:
- Exercises for Osteoporosis
- Light weight-bearing exercises for osteoporosis at home
- Walking
- Chair Exercises
- Balance Training
- Stretching
Whether an older person lives at home, or resides in a Senior Living Community, these exercises can be done alone, or in a group setting.
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Bone Healthy Food & Supplements
In addition to exercise, there are many foods for osteoporosis prevention, and vitamin supplements that help seniors maintain bone health, such as:
Calcium Rich Foods
Foods that naturally contain adequate amounts of calcium, including milk, yogurt, cheese, and leafy green vegetables.
Calcium Supplements
If a senior is not getting enough calcium from their diet, calcium supplements for osteoporosis can help boost levels to strengthen bones.
Vitamins for Bone Health
Taking Vitamin D daily can help keep bones as healthy as possible. Magnesium and zinc also contribute to maintaining bone density.
Helping Seniors Maintain Bone Health
Focusing on bone wellness is one of the best ways seniors can support their overall health. The compassionate staff at Frontier Senior Living is committed to helping our residents stay active, and enjoy activities that fill their lives with purpose and meaning.
If you would like to learn more about our many services, we cordially invite you to visit one of our beautiful properties, take a tour, and speak with our friendly staff.
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