Osteoporosis in Men: What Senior Men Should Know About Bone Health
According to the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation, around 2 million men in the United States have osteoporosis. An additional 12 million are at risk of developing the condition.
As you grow older, your chances of developing osteoporosis increase. This increases the risk of fractures and prolonged recovery times. Osteoporosis in men is a serious health concern, but there are many steps you can take to manage it.
Start by living in a safe, supportive environment, such as Sagebrook Senior Living at San Francisco, located at 2750 Geary Boulevard, 94118. Our beautiful outdoor spaces help you stay active.
On-site wellness services support your health goals every day. Keep reading to learn what senior men in San Francisco, CA, need to know about maintaining bone health.
Bone Loss Happens With Age
As you age, your body naturally begins to lose bone density. The production of new bone cells slows, while existing bone cells break down at an accelerated rate. As a result, bones become weaker and more fragile.
For men, bone loss begins in their 40s and 50s, but it becomes more noticeable after age 70. Bone health for senior men becomes crucial at this stage. While bone loss naturally occurs with aging, you can take proactive steps to slow it down.
Focusing on bone health and overall wellness helps reduce fracture risk. Making these adjustments early on can help maintain your bone strength as you age.
The Right Foods Boost Bone Health
Bone loss in senior men is often due to a lack of vitamin D and calcium. These nutrients are crucial for maintaining strong bones.
Consuming foods rich in calcium and vitamin D can significantly improve your bone health. Incorporate these foods into your diet:
- Dairy products like milk and cheese
- Leafy greens such as kale and spinach
- Fortified cereals and orange juice
- Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel
- Tofu and fortified plant-based milk
- Eggs and mushrooms (for vitamin D)
Preparing these foods at home can be exhausting, and dining alone may feel monotonous. Consider moving to Sagebrook Senior Living at San Francisco.
Here, you can enjoy fresh, chef-prepared meals designed to support men's aging health. The Elevate Dining program features seasonal dishes tailored to dietary needs, including heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes.
Exercise Makes Bones Tougher
Many men reduce their physical activity as they age. It is often due to joint pain, fatigue, or fear of injury. While understandable, a sedentary lifestyle raises the risk of bone loss.
Aging and osteoporosis are closely linked, and a lack of movement can make bones weaker. Even if you are not as energetic as you once were, you can still remain active. Engage in joint-friendly exercises that are effective in enhancing bone strength.
Good options include:
- Brisk walking
- Lightweight lifting
- Tai chi
- Chair exercises
- Swimming
- Stretching routines
Avoid high-impact workouts or fast movements that may result in falls. Instead, consider enrolling in a fitness class led by a qualified instructor. They can assist you in moving safely while enhancing strength and improving balance.
Smoking and Alcohol Weakens Bones
Smoking impairs blood flow and weakens bones. Alcohol blocks your body from using calcium. It also lowers the number of cells that build bone.
Quitting smoking and cutting back on alcohol can be hard. Many senior men have smoked for years. However, the longer you procrastinate, the more damage it can inflict on your bones.
Begin by gradually reducing your weekly cigarette intake. Switch to nicotine patches if needed. Replace alcohol with water or juice at meals.
Talk to your doctor about support programs. Some offer coaching or safe medication to help you quit.
Though gradual, these changes protect your bones. Making healthier choices is a significant step towards senior wellness. It's never too late to prioritize your health.
Bone Scans Can Catch Problems Early
A bone density test, also called a bone scan, checks how strong your bones are. It can find early signs of bone loss before a fracture happens.
Doctors utilize these results to evaluate whether your risk of fractures is elevated. If your bone density is low, they may recommend various modifications to assist you.
They might recommend:
- Eating calcium-rich foods
- Taking vitamin D supplements
- Doing lightweight-bearing exercises
- Stopping smoking
- Using prescribed medication
Bone scans are quick and painless. They help detect issues early when treatment is most effective. Regular scans support bone health for senior men and can help you stay active and safe.
Falls Cause Most Fractures
The CDC reports that falls are the top cause of injury in adults aged 65 and over. Seniors are more likely to fall due to weak muscles, poor balance, and slower reflexes.
Some falls cause serious injuries like hip fractures. Others can lead to long hospital stays or even death.
Your home may lack necessary features for fall prevention. You likely lack:
- Grab bars in the bathroom
- Non-slip mats in the shower
- Good lighting in hallways
- Stair rails on both sides
- Raised toilet seats
Consider relocating to Sagebrook Senior Living at San Francisco for enhanced safety. Our community layout supports safety and easy movement. Trained staff offer daily help with tasks like bathing or walking, lowering the risk of falling.
Some Medicines Affect Bones
Some medications may accelerate bone loss or impede bone growth. Common ones include steroids and cancer treatments. These drugs may lower bone strength over time.
If you are on any long-term medication, consult your doctor regarding potential bone risks. Your doctor may suggest safe steps to protect your bones. This may include suggested supplements or alternative medications.
Osteoporosis in Men: Understanding the Risks and Solutions
Osteoporosis in men often remains undiagnosed until a significant fracture happens. As men age, bone strength naturally declines, making bones more vulnerable to injury.
Weak bones increase the risk of falls and fractures, but there are ways to slow the process. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and bone density tests can help manage bone health.
At Sagebrook Senior Living at San Francisco, we offer a supportive environment coupled with engaging activities and personalized care. Our focus is on wellness and safety.
Let us assist you in living your best life in a vibrant, community-focused environment. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you.