Osteoporosis is a major health risk for seniors since bone density tends to decrease as we age. The risk of osteoporosis among seniors is growing more worrisome as more than 10 million Americans now suffer from it and thousands of people struggle with poor bone mass.
Unfortunately, only a small fraction of older adults with low bone density are actually evaluated for treatment. Here are some ways to stave off osteoporosis if you or a loved one are concerned about developing this problem.
Improve Your Diet
Maximize your protein intake in your diet. According to research, seniors who eat more protein are at a lower risk of sustaining hip fractures than those who don’t get enough protein in their diet. The recommended daily protein intake for older women is 46 grams and for men it is 56 grams.
This can be derived from either plant or animal products. Milk and other dairy products, as well as the antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables, are also beneficial for bone health.
Get Regular Screenings
While minerals and vitamins are essential for bone health, taking Vitamin D and calcium on their own is not likely to lessen the risk of fracture. Getting a screening test, like a bone mineral density scan or a fracture risk assessment, is the best way to prevent fractures.
When the risk of fracture is significant, medication may be prescribed in addition to lifestyle changes like exercise and diet that help preserve bone mineral density. Vitamin D can reduce the risk of slipping among older people who live in senior care homes.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise, especially weight training, can prevent bone loss and build stronger muscles and bones. Besides increasing muscle strength, exercise is crucial for ensuring a healthy body weight.
Take the Appropriate Medication
Treatments that can have a major impact with relatively little effort are the ones that focus on secondary prevention of fractures. Patients who have suffered a hip fracture should take prescription meds to reduce the risk of sustaining another fracture.
Check Out Senior Living Communities
Keeping up with regular screenings, tests, and dietary requirements can get overwhelming. However, senior residents of assisted living communities get all the medical assistance they need right in their neighborhood. To find such senior living communities in Oklahoma, reach out to Next Level Senior Advisors today.
We’ll help you find a community that offers all the services you need based on your health and financial requirements. Give us a call today to learn more.
