Imagine a life where a simple stumble could lead to a serious fracture. For many seniors, this isn’t just a fear – it’s a reality. In fact, an estimated 54 million Americans have low bone density (osteopenia) or osteoporosis, conditions that dramatically increase the risk of debilitating breaks.
May is Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month, and it’s a great time to learn more about bone health and the importance of taking preventative measures.
While we tend to think of bones as being hard, dense objects, they’re made up of growing and changing living cells and tissue. Like many of the body’s organs, they are in a constant state of regeneration. However, aging can compromise this process; after age 50, we start losing bone tissue faster than it can be rebuilt.
As a result, bone density tends to decrease as we get older. Changes in bones can cause weakness and susceptibility to fractures and breakage, which can be devastating to overall health and wellbeing.
Common Bone Conditions in Seniors
Many seniors experience changes in their bones, starting with low bone density, or osteopenia. This often has no noticeable symptoms initially. However, it’s crucial to be aware that without intervention, osteopenia can progress to osteoporosis. This more severe condition means bones become weak and brittle, significantly increasing the risk of fractures from falls or even everyday activities.
Women face a higher risk of this progression, especially after menopause when the protective effects of estrogen decrease.
In addition to osteoporosis and osteopenia, the following bone conditions and disorders can affect seniors:
- Osteomyelitis – inflammation or swelling in the bone, usually resulting from an infection somewhere else in the body or because of an injury.
- Bone cancers and tumors – such osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma.
- Paget’s disease – a chronic disorder that causes bones to grow larger and become weaker than is considered normal.
In rare cases, genetic disorders and childhood illnesses like rickets can cause bone problems in seniors.
Treatment Options for Bone Loss
Bone loss is treatable, and it’s never too late to start a regimen to prevent further bone loss and to stimulate new bone formation. There are several options to consider and discuss with a doctor.
- Oral and nasal medications. Prescription medications like bisphosphonates may slow bone loss and increase bone mass. Hormone therapy can also address symptoms of osteoporosis.
- Injectable and intravenous (IV) medications. Several treatments, some of which can be self-administered, can be delivered via injection or IV to lower the risk of bone breakage.
- Over the counter supplements. Supplements such as calcium and Vitamin D can support new bone formation.
Maintaining Bone Health in Seniors
No matter your age, doctors agree that a combination of healthy diet and adequate exercise can help keep bones strong. The following are considered best practices for seniors when it comes to bone health:
- Ask for bone density testing. Bone mineral density testing can identify osteoporosis and assess a senior’s risk for fractures. This testing is recommended for all women over age 65 and women younger than age 65 who have gone through menopause and have an increased risk for osteoporosis-related fracture.
- Emphasize nutrient-rich foods. Including foods in the diet that contain calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which help limit bone loss and increase bone and muscle strength. In addition to traditional sources of these nutrients, like meat, eggs, and leafy green vegetables, fortified foods such as juices with added vitamin D and calcium may help.
- Maintain an exercise regimen. Exercise isn’t just for muscles; it’s crucial for bone strength too! Weight-bearing exercises (like walking and dancing) and resistance training help stimulate bone growth. Even gentle activity is better than none. Older people who have suffered falls may become afraid of falling again, and when a person is less active, they become weaker.
- Follow a doctor’s recommended protocol. If a doctor has prescribed medications or supplements to address osteopenia or osteoporosis, a senior should stick to the recommended regimen.
In-Home Caregiver Support for Bone Health
Having companion care for seniors can be invaluable when it comes to staying healthy, including practices that support bone health. Kadan Homecare’s highly trained and experienced caregivers can support a senior by helping them prepare and eat healthy meals, get outside for a walk or to an exercise class, or follow a medication schedule.
By ‘caring for families like only family can,’ we are here to help our clients stay strong. For more information about senior home care in Metro Atlanta, call 770-396-8997 or email info@kadan.org.
