Osteoporosis and aging go together to affect a large portion of the population. Though the numbers can differ depending on if you are male or female, it is thought that osteoporosis affects approximately 10 million individuals in the United States. Putting them at increased risk for osteoporosis, low bone density affects approximately another 44 million individuals.
For people over 50 years of age, the chances of osteoporosis increase exponentially. Who is most prone to osteoporosis? In many cases, it is the following:
- Postmenopausal women (highest risk)
- Asian women
- Caucasian women
The Effects of Osteoporosis
Most commonly associated with osteoporosis are hip, spine, and wrist fractures. Fragility fractures frequently are a result of a fall – usually from nothing more than standing height.
For retirement-age individuals, one of the more serious problems is hip fractures. Functional recovery only occurs approximately 50% of the time following a hip fracture. More times than not, the individual ends up disabled to a certain point. They may, approximately 25% of the time, even end up in long-term care.
Unfortunately, until a fracture occurs, there are few if any osteoporosis warning signs.
Are You at Risk?
Some people are more at risk of osteoporosis than others. Your loved ones may be at risk for the development of it if the following factors apply:
- Excessive caffeine intake
- Smoking
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Postmenopausal
- Early menopause or removed ovaries without hormone replacement
- Physical activity at low levels
- Low calcium
- Low body weight
- Osteoporosis in your family history
Can Osteoporosis Be Prevented?
If you’re concerned about osteoporosis in your loved ones, you may wish to request a bone density test from the doctor. They may be able to minimize the risk factors for developing osteoporosis. Some preventative methods are as follows:
- Practice safety to prevent falls.
- Avoid smoking.
- Be as active as possible including flexibility exercises, swimming, tai chi, yoga, and other activities that improve coordination and balance. Include in the daily routine a little tennis, hiking, walking, and/or dancing.
- Make sure that vitamin D intake is adequate. (15 micrograms or 600 IU is recommended over 50 years of age)
- Include calcium in the diet. At least 1200 mg per day over the age of 50.
- Eat healthily!
Everyone Can Age in Comfort and Style at TerraBella Northridge
At TerraBella Northridge, with the numerous programs we offer, your loved one can make friends, stay active, remain healthier, and more. Check out our activities and events calendar if you’d like to see what kind of fun and interesting things we schedule. Our caring team will do everything in their power to see to it that your loved one is comfortable and well taken care of.
Our Dimensions Health and Wellness program is fully inclusive, comprehensive, and engaging. It promotes happiness and health, and assists retirement-age individuals in staying active. We take a multifaceted approach to your loved one’s wellness. This way, they can improve their mental health, physical activity, and overall health across domains like spirituality, intellectualism, socialization, emotion, and medical/physical aspects.
Please contact one of our friendly, helpful representatives by phoning us at 919-848-4906 with any questions you may have. With sales and leasing inquiries, you can call 984-231-6041. You can also, if you prefer, use our convenient online form to open the lines of communication.
Better yet, see for yourself all we have to offer. Schedule a tour today!
