Osteoporosis Awareness & Prevention Month | Evergreen Senior Living – Evergreen Senior Living

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Osteoporosis Awareness & Prevention Month | Evergreen Senior Living

 As we age, our bones become thinner and more fragile. Out of the 10 million Americans living with osteoporosis and 34 million with low bone mass, the majority are seniors. It is common for a person not to know that they have the disease until a bone has been broken. About 70% of all fractures caused by osteoporosis are people above the age of 65. Mortality or permanent disability are risk factors a senior can face when recovering from fractures due to osteoporosis. By retaining a healthy lifestyle, you can reduce your chances of bone mass loss.

May is National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month. Osteoporosis is a chronic skeletal disease that causes the bones to become brittle and weak over time. The thinning of bone density can result in an increased chance of fractures. Osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease” because a person cannot feel the reduction of their bone mass, and there are no warning signs. Here are factors, symptoms, and preventions to take into consideration to help decrease your risk of osteoporosis.

Risk Factors:

  • Low body weight or small bone-structure
  • Smoking and heavy alcohol use
  • Hormonal changes or menopause
  • Deficiencies in calcium or vitamin D
  • Some medications

Symptoms:

  • Back pain (caused by a fracture or collapsed vertebra)
  • Weak and brittle nails
  • Receding gums
  • Loss of height over time
  • Stooped posture
  • Bone fractures that break easier than expected 

Prevention:

  • Medications and vitamin supplements
  • A healthy diet with calcium and vitamin D rich foods
  • Weight-bearing exercises
  • Taking a bone density test from your doctor

Here at Evergreen Senior Living in Champaign, we understand that bone health is important for all of our residents. We strive to give your loved one the best care and treatment to maintain healthy living. Visit our website or call us to learn more about how we keep bones healthy with exercise, diet, and access to nearby medical professionals.

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