Strong bones are the foundation for staying active and independent as we age. But bone loss often goes unnoticed until a fall leads to injury.
Osteoporosis affects 54 million U.S. Americans age 50 and older (Novant Health). This progressive condition weakens the bones and increases the risk of serious fractures.
May is Osteoporosis Awareness Month, a timely reminder to focus on habits that strengthen bones and support aging safely. For older adults, maintaining senior bone health is key to preserving independence and mobility.
Learn more about how prioritizing osteoporosis support helps strengthen wellness in assisted living at SummerHouse Ashton Manor in Luling, LA, below.
Prioritize Fall Prevention
The National Council on Aging reveals that falls occur in 14 million seniors over 65 each year, equating to 1 in 4 older adults.
Prioritizing fall prevention is vital to protect senior bone health every day. Simple changes can make a big impact.
Remove loose rugs and clutter, and keep walkways well-lit and clear. Install grab bars in bathrooms and handrails on stairs. Choose supportive, non-slip footwear.
Make a point to review medications that may cause dizziness and falling. It’s also important to schedule vision and hearing checks regularly.
These small steps help reduce fall risk and support aging safely. Fewer falls mean fewer fractures and improved wellness in assisted living.
Get Adequate Vitamin D
Vitamin D supports strong bones and overall health. This essential nutrient helps your body absorb calcium, a key mineral for bone strength.
Sunlight is the most natural source. However, it’s crucial to balance sun exposure to protect skin. In colder months or for those with limited sun exposure, supplements may be necessary.
Eating fortified foods like milk, eggs, and fatty fish also provides good sources of vitamin D. Ask a healthcare provider about your vitamin D needs.
A daily dose can help with osteoporosis support. It supports senior bone health and reduces the risk of fractures.
Consume Calcium-Rich Foods
Incorporating calcium-rich foods into your diet is essential for strong bones. Calcium helps maintain bone density and prevents bone loss.
Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese are excellent sources. For those who are dairy-free, leafy greens such as kale, broccoli, and collard greens are great alternatives. Fortified plant-based milks, tofu, and almonds also provide calcium.
A well-balanced diet with enough calcium supports overall health. Pairing calcium-rich foods with vitamin D enhances absorption. They promote senior bone health and aging safely.
Meeting balanced dietary needs in seniors ensures your bones stay strong and helps reduce the risk of fractures. Osteoporosis Awareness Month is a great time to evaluate your diet and make adjustments to support bone health.
Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol
Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol are key steps in protecting bone health. Smoking can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb calcium, weakening bones over time. It also slows the healing process after a fracture.
Excessive alcohol use affects balance, which can increase the risk of falls and injuries. It can also disrupt the body’s calcium levels and hormone function, both critical for bone strength.
Limiting alcohol to one drink a day for women and two for men helps reduce these risks. Supporting senior bone health and promoting aging safely means committing to healthy habits.
Osteoporosis Awareness Month highlights the importance of making healthy choices every day.
Stay Physically Active
The CDC guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Seniors also need at least 2 days per week of muscle-strengthening exercises and activities to improve balance.
Staying physically active strengthens bones and boosts balance. Focus on weight-bearing and strength training exercises like:
- Walking
- Dancing
- Light jogging
- Yoga
- Tai chi
- Swimming
These exercises improve stability and coordination and help maintain bone density. Regular movement also supports joint health and reduces fall risk.
During Osteoporosis Awareness Month, make exercise a daily habit for healthier bones and safer aging.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess weight puts additional stress on bones, particularly those in the lower body. This can increase the risk of fractures and joint problems. It can also affect posture and balance, making falls more likely.
Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for supporting bone health and preventing injury. Keeping weight in check reduces bone strain.
A balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients, combined with regular physical activity, helps manage weight effectively. Staying active also strengthens muscles to provide better support for bones.
Doing so promotes long-term health and wellness, which helps contribute to safe and active aging.
Follow Prescribed Treatments
Following prescribed treatments is essential for managing osteoporosis and protecting bone strength.
Personalized care plans recommended by a healthcare provider can slow bone loss and lower fracture risk, such as:
- Medications
- Supplements
- Lifestyle changes
- Physical therapy
- Dietary adjustments
- Bone density monitoring
Skipping doses or ignoring treatment plans can weaken progress and increase health risks. Regular check-ins with your provider help monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed.
Staying consistent supports long-term health and wellness in assisted living, especially as we age. Treatments work best when combined with a balanced diet, physical activity, and fall prevention efforts.
Schedule a Bone Density Scan
A bone density scan is a simple and effective way to check for osteoporosis. It measures bone strength and helps detect bone loss early, before a fracture occurs.
This scan guides your healthcare provider in making informed treatment decisions. It’s especially important for adults over 65 and those with risk factors like family history or past fractures.
Getting tested regularly supports senior bone health and helps track how well treatments are working. Osteoporosis Awareness Month is the perfect time to take action.
Prioritize your health and wellness by scheduling a scan and staying proactive about aging safely.
Celebrate Osteoporosis Awareness Month at SummerHouse Ashton Manor in Luling, LA
Taking care of our bones becomes increasingly important with age. Osteoporosis Awareness Month is an ideal opportunity to take proactive steps toward protecting senior bone health. Making informed choices allows seniors to reduce their risk of fractures and maintain independence as they age.
SummerHouse Ashton Manor in Luling, LA, offers Senior Assisted Living and SHINE® Memory Care accommodations. Our Exclusive Senior Living Programs and amenities are designed to support senior wellness in assisted living. Our community promotes independence and provides personalized care in a safe, nurturing environment.
Contact SummerHouse Ashton Manor to schedule your community tour with us today.
