Protect Your Bone Health

Harvard Medical School published an article explaining that older adults should take steps to protect bone health, especially if you have been diagnosed with osteopenia. After the age of 60, bone loss speeds up, and experts warn if you do not do something to prevent the loss, it may result in osteoporosis. 

If you are a woman over the age of 65, talk to your healthcare provider about getting a bone density scan. If you have risk factors for osteoporosis such as family history, low body weight, smoke or take certain medications, your doctor may recommend a test earlier.

Osteopenia is a condition of low bone density which puts a person at risk for osteoporosis, a condition where bones easily and repeatedly break. The disease can be so severe it can lead to a loss of independence. Staying healthy is important as it can help slow down the progression of osteopenia to osteoporosis. 

Statistics report more than 2 million bone fractures in the U.S. each year are attributed to osteoporosis but there are things you can do to prevent as well as treat the disease. While there are medications to stave off the damage, they are typically reserved for those who already have osteoporosis. Treatment for low bone density such as osteopenia is treated mainly through diet and exercise.  

Bones become stronger when we put force on them or pull on them with weight-bearing exercises. These include resistance training, body-weight exercises and walking at a brisk pace. Other activities to prevent or treat bone loss are aerobics, balance and posture exercises. 

Diet is another important step in preventing osteoporosis. Doctors recommend getting as much calcium as you can through foods like dairy, sardines and leafy greens. Protein is also important for seniors and protects brain health as well as builds strong bones. Other recommendations include talking to your doctor about taking calcium and vitamin D3 supplements; and limiting alcohol consummation to a moderate amount.  

MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers exceptional independent and senior living in Peoria, Arizona. Residents enjoy five-star dining along with wellness programs and activities which promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides holistic care to those with memory loss diseases.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information. 

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest independent living, and assisted living in Peoria, Arizona.