Although osteoporosis in men may not be as common as in women, according to the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF), it still affects two million American males. The organization further notes that 12 million more men are at risk. Up to one in four adult males older than 50 will also experience an osteoporosis fracture.
While those statistics are undoubtedly sobering, there's still some good news. First, osteoporosis and the fractures that can result from it are highly preventable. Moreover, many strategies for preventing and managing this bone disease can also help with overall healthy aging and wellness.
So, join us today at SummerHouse Beau Ridge, our senior living community in the heart of beautiful Ridgeland, MS, just a mere 11+ miles from Jackson, as we share insights into osteoporosis. Read on to discover:
Let's get started.
Osteoporosis is a disorder that weakens bones by decreasing their mineral density and mass. The less dense and the weaker the bones get, the higher their risk of fracturing (breaking).
Osteoporosis can affect the health of senior men by:
Osteoporosis can also increase the risk of other health problems, such as complications after fractures.
A study published in BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders identified an increased risk of infections, including pneumonia, in patients who have suffered hip fractures. Becoming bedridden after a fracture can also heighten the risk of pressure ulcers.
Even more concerning is that men with osteoporosis have a higher risk of morbidity and mortality. According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), in the first 12 months after a hip fracture, the overall mortality is 20% in men, higher than that of women.
At the very least, the pain, impaired mobility, and loss of independence that arise from osteoporosis can reduce the overall quality of life of older adults.
Preventing and managing osteoporosis involves avoiding risk factors, such as tobacco smoking. Likewise, senior men should boost their calcium and vitamin D intake. Engaging in more physical activity can also help.
As the Rush University Medical Center explains, smoking is bad for bones because:
For those reasons, older men who smoke should consider quitting now to help their bones and overall health recover.
Seniors in Ridgeland, MS, who wish to quit smoking can get help and support from the Mississippi State Tobacco Quitline (1-800-784-8669 or 1-800-QUIT-NOW). Other platforms that offer assistance are Smokefree.gov and the American Lung Association.
Calcium is the mineral that:
Vitamin D, on the other hand, is a nutrient the body needs to absorb calcium. A lack of it can prevent the body from utilizing calcium effectively.
Senior men in Ridgeland can boost their calcium and vitamin D intake by incorporating more of these foods into their diet:
The best way to get vitamin D, however, is sun exposure. SummerHouse Beau Ridge has a private outdoor courtyard and community garden as part of our senior living community amenities. Here, our residents can enjoy nature time and sun exposure while relaxing, exercising, and enjoying fresh air.
Exercising as much as possible is one of the best ways to keep the bones healthy and strong. Best of all, the U.S. CDC says physical activity improves seniors' health in many other ways, such as by:
Weight-bearing activities are perfect exercises for improving bone strength and overall health. Examples include:
SummerHouse Beau Ridge offers a robust calendar of physical, social, recreational, and cognitive events and activities as part of our exclusive senior living programs. From exercise classes to fitness courses, group games, and arts and crafts, we offer all these and more to our older residents.
Preventing and managing osteoporosis is just the first step; senior men in Ridgeland, MS, should also focus on preventing slips, trips, and falls, especially at home. Eliminating hazards that contribute to these incidents can help minimize the risks of injuries, especially fractures.
Here are some of the top tips for seniors to stay on their feet and protect themselves from broken bones:
At SummerHouse Beau Ridge, we promote senior safety and well-being by providing all our residents with housekeeping and home maintenance services. Our spacious apartment homes are also well-illuminated and boast handicap accessibility features.
Although not as prevalent as in women, osteoporosis in men can still be debilitating and even cause life-threatening injuries. For this reason, senior men should do everything in their power to lower their risk of developing or managing this bone disease. Quitting smoking, getting more calcium and vitamin D, and exercising more are some of the best ways to start.
Let SummerHouse Beau Ridge be your kind and compassionate partner in your journey to healthy and graceful aging. Here, you can enjoy exclusive senior lifestyle programs that promote optimal nutrition and physical, social, and mental health and wellness.
Reach out to us today to schedule a tour of our beautiful senior living community in Ridgeland, MS!