As we age, our bones may be prone to breakage as they become fragile due to osteoporosis. It is a disease that affects no fewer than 8 million women in the United States. Women may be more predisposed to osteoporosis because they suffer from low bone mass. Every year, over 2 million broken bones in the United States are attributed to osteoporosis.
So important is the topic of osteoporosis that it has been nationally assigned its own month – which is May. Thus, we need to debunk some of the myths surrounding this condition. We explore the concept of osteoporosis using fact versus myth.
Only Women Have Osteoporosis
False. This is possibly one of the most prevalent of all myths. It is true that around menopause, typically in the 50s, women are at risk for osteoporosis. However, osteoporosis is also a very real risk for men, typically at a much later stage, at around 70 years of age.
Your Bones Will Ache If You Have Osteoporosis
This is mixed. Even before any symptoms appear, your bones are damaged by this silent disease. The very first sign can well be a broken bone. It is true, however, that a hunched posture and pain may appear as the disease progresses.
Osteoporosis Is Unpreventable
Again, this is mixed. You can, however, significantly reduce your risks of osteoporosis. Here are some tips:
- Moderate your alcohol intake
- Quit smoking
- Engage in weight-bearing exercises like lifting weights, dancing, jogging, and walking
- Consume foods with calcium and vitamin D (soy milk, bread, juices, fortified cereals, dairy foods)
- Eat healthily
Osteoporosis Only Affects Certain Nationalities
Osteoporosis can affect people of any racial group or ethnicity. However, the risk of developing osteoporosis is slightly higher among Asian and white women.
Every Woman Should Be Tested For Osteoporosis Often and Early in Life
Generally speaking, women probably don’t need yearly tests until they are in their 60s. The health of your bones can, however, be measured by a bone density test. You probably don’t have to worry about it unless you are at high risk for osteoporosis development.
Due to genetic factors, the tendency of osteoporosis to run in families is high. If your family members have experienced osteoporosis, you should talk to your physician. This could help determine whether a bone density test is appropriate.
Does Your Loved One with Osteoporosis Need Some Assistance?
In the early stage of osteoporosis, your loved ones may still be able to get around quite well. As it progresses, they may have a harder time doing things for themselves. While an Independent Living community would be a good fit while they can still care for themselves, they may eventually need to switch to an Assisted Living community to get the help they need with activities of daily living.
Both are available at Morada Cy-Fair. Just 20 miles from Houston’s metro area, we can provide the opportunity for your loved one to retire in style. With numerous amenities, they will remain happier, healthier, productive, and independent for as long as possible.
If you’d like to speak to a representative, please call us at 281-970-6688. For sales and leasing questions, please call 281-675-2896. If you would prefer, you can use our convenient online form to get in contact with us. Simply fill it out, send it in, and we will be in touch.
See for yourself all we have to offer. Schedule a tour today. We look forward to meeting you.
