Ways To Help An Elder Deal With Osteoporosis -2

Osteoporosis or loss of bone density as I discussed makes elders more prone to fracture or break. It would be appropriate here to know who are more prone to this bone condition, before we look at more ways in which we can help elders deal with osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is more common in those above the age of 60, with women being more at risk than men. Also women who have had their menopause before the age of 45 are prone, with a strong family history of osteoporosis posing more risk. Those that are underweight, having a body mass index of 19 or less with anorexia nervosa and those women whose periods have stopped for six to one year prior to menopause are more prone.

Those that have had steroids, or are a smoker or a drinker are more at a risk of getting osteoporosis. This bone condition could also affect those that do not exercise and have a sedentary life. Higher risk is posed with certain medical conditions like an overactive thyroid, coeliac disease, Cushing's syndrome, Crohn's disease, chronic kidney failure, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic liver disease, type 1 diabetes or any condition that causes poor mobility also being risk conditions.

Some more ways that would help an elder deal with osteoporosis are:

 
It is significant to note that the chemicals present in tobacco and alcoholic drinks lead to bone loss. It is so important that we convince and encourage elders to give up smoking and alcohol. Also alcohol is also responsible for falls, with many elders developing a decreasing tolerance for alcohol with age and their balance being affected adversely. It is best for elders to limit alcohol to 3 units daily.

Most elderly people have problems in eating due to bad teeth, missing teeth and plates that hurt their mouth that prevents proper digestion and utilization of nutrients. This proves a hindrance to osteoporosis where nutrition is the main contributing factor. Elders with osteoporosis require additional calcium and Vitamin D in their diet, and moderate protein requirements.

We need to help our elders with increased calcium rich foods. This is also to be complemented with Vitamin D to promote better absorption of calcium. Elders have to be made to realize this factor and should take at least 1200 mg of calcium and 800mg of Vitamin D. In addition to   calcium rich foods, elders should also be encouraged to take calcium and Vitamin D supplements.

Protein is to be taken by elders with osteoporosis, but it is also to be realized that excess of protein is bad as it causes more calcium to be eliminated from the body. Most often elderly patients are low in protein because of appetite loss, poor food selection, and the inability to swallow and chew their food; however elders should make sure they take the recommended protein intake that is 46 grams for women and 56 grams for men. Elders with osteoporosis should also take reduced amount of sodium as it eliminates calcium from the body; it is best to avoid snack foods, canned soups and TV dinners.

Hope these ways to deal with osteoporosis for the elderly are useful to you.

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