Tips for Reducing Risk of Osteoporosis
For many seniors, a downward health spiral begins with a single bad break. Broken bones may lead to a series of health problems from which the patient never completely recovers. This is why it is important to be aware of a disease called osteoporosis and to manage its symptoms when diagnosed, according to Dr. Barry Malinowski, medical director for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Ohio.
Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become weak and break easily, especially bones in the spine, hip or wrist. It is a major public health threat for an estimated 44 million Americans, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation .
Anyone can get osteoporosis, but it is most common in women. In fact, half of all women 50 and older will break a bone because of osteoporosis, the Foundation says.
In addition to gender and age, there are other risks for osteoporosis, including a family history of the disease. It can be detected through a bone density test. The U.S.
Preventive Services Task Force, part of U.S. Health and Human Services, recommends this test for all women ages 65 and older . The test is covered by Medicare once every 24 months, or more often if medically necessary.
Because there is no known cure, osteoporosis can be a difficult diagnosis for patients to digest. But the risks of dangerous breaks can be reduced through lifestyle and medicine, according to Malinowski, who recommends the following:
- Don’t smoke. Smoking increases a person’s chances of getting osteoporosis and many other diseases. People who smoke can take advantage of smoking cessation programs offered through Medicare to help them quit.
- Limit alcohol use. Like smoking, heavy alcohol use increases the chances of getting osteoporosis. The risk of falls increases, too. Medicare covers outpatient substance abuse services for those who need help quitting.
- Make the home safe. The risks of falling in the home can be reduced by removing clutter and loose rugs from floors and installing non-slip surfaces or grab bars in the shower or tub. Additionally, many insurers have programs available in their affiliated Medicare plans to help members prevent falls.
- Stay active. Someone newly diagnosed with osteoporosis may worry about the risks of exercise, but weight-bearing exercise -- such as walking or running—is actually recommended for bone health, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Exercise strengthens muscles, which helps slow bone loss, and improves balance, which helps prevent falls. Exercise experts can help develop a safe and effective program for those diagnosed with osteoporosis.
- Get enough calcium. Calcium is important for bone health. Womenshealth.gov, a project of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office, recommends 1,000 milligrams for those ages 19 to 50 and 1,200 milligrams for those aged 51 and older. Calcium-rich foods include nonfat milk, low-fat yogurt, broccoli, cauliflower, salmon, tofu and leafy green vegetables. Calcium supplements are available to fill the gaps.
- Get enough Vitamin D. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. The recommended daily allowance for adults is 600 international units per day for those up to age 70 and 800 international units for those aged 71 and older, according to Womenshealth.gov. Vitamin D can be found in foods, such as fatty fish and fish oil, or as a supplement. It also is produced when skin is exposed to sunlight.
- Take medications as prescribed. People who have been diagnosed with thin or weak bones or who have had a fracture caused by osteoporosis should talk to their doctor about the risks and benefits of medications that may stop bone loss. A number of different medications are available, including oral, injections and patches.
“Osteoporosis cannot be taken lightly,” said Malinowski. “Thankfully, the risk of broken bones can be mitigated through medicine and lifestyle and there are resources available to help, including many at no extra cost through Medicare.”