Osteoporosis can be defined as a disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone. The body, therefore, becomes weak and may break from falls or even sneezing and minor bumps in severe cases of the disease. Senior citizens of Fairview Heights and Belleville cannot feel their bones weakening, and as a result, Osteoporosis is termed a silent disease.
How Do You Know That Your Loved One Has Osteoporosis?
The early stages of Osteoporosis are becoming shorter and the upper back curving forward. Seniors residing around Madison, Maryville, and National StockYards, who experience these symptoms are advised to always consult with their doctor.
Treating and Managing Osteoporosis Among Seniors
October 20th, World Osteoporosis Day, gave many caregivers and seniors living in Hartford and Lovejoy a chance to learn about the disease and how to manage it. Below are four measures that caregivers and seniors should consider in managing Osteoporosis during the fall and winter.
1. Physical Activity
Osteoporosis is catalyzed by falls during winter. Many seniors living in Edwardsville and Granite City are at a higher risk of falling during winter due to icy sidewalks and pools of water around their houses. Caregivers should ensure that their loved ones participate actively in balance exercises that strengthen skeletal muscles and bones to minimize falls during winter.
2. Healthy Diet
Seniors in Bethalto and Glen Carbon are encouraged to eat healthy meals that are rich in calcium and vitamin D, which increase their bone density. Seniors need to increase their calcium intake as they advance in age, and common sources of calcium are milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products. Non-dairy products that are rich in calcium are broccoli, sardines, and almonds.
Vitamin D is acquired from sunlight and is essential for bone formation. During the fall and winter seasons in Cottage Hills, there is always minimum sunlight. In that case, seniors need to consume meals that are rich in vitamin D. Examples of foods that are rich in Vitamin D are fatty fish such as tuna and mackerel.
3. Adherence to Prescriptions Given
Seniors living with Alzheimer's disease in Alton and East Alton have a higher risk of sustaining fractures. If diagnosed with Osteoporosis, caregivers need to ensure that the loved ones take their medicine as instructed. People living with their loved ones are always advised to look for reputable caregivers who can help their loved ones in taking the prescribed medication.
4. Preparing The House to Minimize Falls During Winter
You should ensure that your loved one uses a cane or a walker when moving around the house during winter to reduce the risk of falls. Additionally, seniors should use handrails on staircases and wear supportive shoes to minimize fall risk during winter.
Conclusion
Those living around the areas of Collinsville in need of specialized care for their loved ones can easily contact the Senior Helpers of Collinsville who will help their loved one manage Osteoporosis while providing communication and follow-up plans on the loved one. Contact us today for more information about our services.