The short answer is yes! Bones density declines as we age. As a result, many individuals in their senior years experience complications caused by poor bone health. These symptoms, however, could be kept at bay or at the very least remedied by following some measures. As a home health & hospice in Wichita, Kansas, we share these four tips on how to maintain healthy bones for your aging loved one:
- Consider Their Medical History
Before jumping right into the measures that you have to take for the maintenance of your loved one’s bone condition, consider their medical history first. If they have been hospitalized for broken ribs or hip fracture, chances are high that they’re suffering from bone loss. This is especially true for aging individuals. The regeneration of healthy bones takes longer as we age. Ask their doctor and take notes. Awareness of their past and present conditions could help improve their future health.
- Check Their Vitamin Intake
Many people know that vitamin deficiency can cause health problems yet not a lot take the proper action to address this. Not eating enough fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, and fortified dairy products could increase the risk for health problems. Poor bone health is one of the many effects of vitamin deficiency. Vitamin A helps in the maintenance of healthy teeth, bones, and skin. The real game-changer, however, is Vitamin D. Without it, calcium would not be absorbed by our body. The sun is the optimal source for Vitamin D, so grab those shades and brave the heat! (But not too much heat.)
- Know the required daily dose and other sources of calcium.
The adage that “calcium is good for the bones” is timeless and famous for a reason. The body does need a hefty amount of calcium each day to prevent osteoporosis and other bone-related health complications. The National Bone Health Alliance recommends that the daily dose of calcium for individuals above the age of 71 should be at least 1200 milligrams. Contrary to popular belief, milk is not the only source of calcium. You can also get a fair amount of it from almonds, kale, broccoli, and soy products.
- Implement an Exercise Routine
Whether your aging loved one’s weight is above the normal average or below it, their bones and muscles still need exercise to maintain their flexibility. Extra fats could undoubtedly put more stress on their bones and joints but it is nevertheless important for them to move around. High-intensity exercises are not the best routines for an aging individual. A better alternative would be low-impact exercises for elders that would keep them active without exhausting them beyond their capacity. Examples of these are walking, jogging, and hiking low-altitude heights will help keep their bone functions intact.
You or an aging loved one could use some help in doing these activities. It is our mission at Providence Home Health and Hospice LLC to give the best possible health care in Kansas. We promote the self-sufficiency and health maintenance to all our care recipients including those with bone-related problems. To find out more, feel free to inquire at 316-558-5956.
