According to the American Geriatrics Society's Health in Aging Foundation, 54 million people aged 50 or older have osteoporosis or are at risk. Osteoporosis is projected to cause three million fractures a year by 2025. A fracture could hinder your mobility, affecting your quality of life.
This Osteoporosis Awareness Month, prioritize bone health in aging seniors to avoid future fractures while living in Kansas City, MO. Enjoy the city's museums, jazz, and Midwestern hospitality before indulging in your senior living community's comforting amenities.
Not sure where to start? Read on to discover our osteoporosis prevention tips for seniors!
Understanding bone health in aging seniors can help you remain proactive. According to the National Institute on Aging, osteoporosis affects one in five women over age 50 and one in 20 men. Your risk of developing this condition increases as you age.
Our bones are living tissue that the body breaks down and replaces over time. Osteoporosis develops when there's an imbalance in this process, causing the body to break down more bone than it replaces.
Osteoporosis is a silent disease. You may not develop noticeable symptoms until a bone breaks.
Fractures usually occur in the wrist, spine, or hip. In serious cases, a simple bump, cough, or sneeze can result in a fracture.
People with osteoporosis often have a hard time recovering. These injuries may cause seniors to lose their mobility and independence.
People of all races and ethnic groups can develop osteoporosis. However, the condition affects women more frequently than men. Other risk factors include:
Remember, people rarely exhibit symptoms. The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends testing for women over age 65. Talk to your Kansas City doctor to determine if you need regular screening.
Treating osteoporosis involves slowing or stopping bone loss. These osteoporosis prevention tips may help reduce your risk of fractures.
Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise. Some medications can help slow down bone loss or help rebuild bone. They'll help you develop a personalized treatment plan based on your bone density.
You can change your lifestyle at any age to keep your bones strong and healthy. Here are a few osteoporosis prevention tips for ongoing senior wellness.
Certain lifestyle factors can contribute to bone degradation, increasing your risk of osteoporosis. These can include:
Smoking can increase your risk of weakened bones, while alcohol can worsen osteoporosis, inflammation, and other conditions. Talk to your doctor about quitting.
Consider moving into a senior living community before making these changes. Their fitness, wellness, and dining program can support your senior wellness goals.
Many trip-and-fall accidents occur at home, where we move without considering safety. Making a few adjustments could reduce your risk of a fall and fracture:
Instead of making these changes, consider moving into a senior living community. You can enjoy comfortable living accommodations while making personalized adjustments with fall prevention in mind.
Food provides vital vitamins and minerals that contribute to bone mass and strength. We reach peak bone mass after age 30. Healthy living for seniors should include a healthy, balanced diet high in:
Calcium is essential for bone structure and strength. Approximately 99% of the body's calcium is stored in the skeleton.
Vitamin D plays a role in regulating bone turnover and calcium absorption. You could develop a vitamin D deficiency without sun exposure or a balanced diet. A deficiency may affect your bone mass and density.
Vitamin K plays a role in preventing bone breakdown and maintaining bone strength. Low levels are associated with low bone density and an increased risk of fractures.
Magnesium can help improve your bone mass density and overall bone health. Boron plays a role in bone growth and maintenance.
Talk to your Kansas City doctor to determine your recommended daily intake of these vitamins and minerals. They may recommend supplements if you're not getting these vitamins through your diet.
Otherwise, explore your senior living community's dining program. You can avoid the stress of cooking while enjoying nutritious, balanced meals made with bone health in mind.
Exercising can improve your strength, balance, and overall senior wellness. The best activities for osteoporosis prevention are weight-bearing and strength-training exercises.
Exercising regularly can improve your mobility and functionality, allowing you to maintain your independence. As you grow stronger and improve your balance, your risk of falls and related injuries may decline.
Before developing a workout routine, consult a doctor or personal trainer. They may recommend you avoid certain activities that can lead to injuries. These may include exercises that involve bending at the waist.
Explore your senior living community's fitness program for exercise classes. A trainer will ensure you're using the proper form.
Use this Osteoporosis Awareness Month as an opportunity to make changes with your health, mobility, and longevity in mind. Remember, you don't have to apply these osteoporosis prevention strategies alone. Instead, consider moving into a senior living community like Addington Place of Shoal Creek.
Discover our spacious suites and apartments, engaging social calendar, and delicious meals; everything you need to thrive. Our dedicated health and wellness team will empower you to maintain your independence while ensuring you receive assistance when necessary. Contact us to schedule a tour.