Osteoporosis is a common condition that affects millions of people, particularly aging adults. The International Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that in the age group over 50, 1 in 2 women and 1 in 4 men are at risk for an osteoporotic fracture. It is characterized by a loss of bone density, leading to weak and fragile bones that are more prone to fractures. Many people are unaware they have osteoporosis, a decrease in bone density, and are in fact diagnosed after they incur a fracture.
In assisted living communities, it is important to take steps to prevent the development of osteoporosis or to manage the condition in those who already have it. Here are some strategies for preventing osteoporosis in assisted living Matthews NC.
Encouraging Weight-Bearing Exercise
Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, dancing, or lifting weights, can help to strengthen bones and prevent osteoporosis. Residents in assisted living are encouraged to participate in different kinds of exercise that can help in building bone density and maintaining healthy bones.
Provision of A Healthy Diet
A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D can help to maintain strong bones. Assisted living offers healthy diet services where the food service department, as well as the in-house registered dietitian, ensure that residents are receiving a diet that supports bone and overall health, as well as remaining within any personal diet restrictions.
Fall Prevention Measures
Falls are a common cause of fractures in aging adults, particularly those with osteoporosis. Assisted living communities ensure they put measures to prevent falls in place. These include safety practices such as installing handrails, removing tripping hazards, and providing assistive devices.
Ensuring Clear Pathways and Easy Access
The team in assisted living communities ensures that clear pathways are always maintained, and the residents’ rooms or personal spaces are kept neat and clear as well. Walking aids, such as canes or walkers, are also ensured to always be within close reach of the bed, even if the residents require assistance to get in/out of bed or stand/sit down.
The team also makes sure the residents’ most commonly used items are easily accessible (toiletries, books, etc.) to prevent unnecessary bending or stooping which may result in a misstep or injury.
Proper Medications
Assisted living also offers the residents medical services which provide access to medications to help prevent bone loss or to increase bone density. The residents are also encouraged to follow the prescribed dosage, while they are monitored for any potential side effects by the healthcare provider.
Encouraging Healthy Lifestyle
Residents in assisted living are encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid practices that can expose them to the danger of osteoporosis. Practices like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of osteoporosis, and residents are encouraged to quit smoking and limit alcohol intake to help prevent bone loss.
Amenities like Live Entertainment, Daily Activities, Recreation and Social Events, and other forms of exciting activities are also put in place in assisted living communities to keep the residents occupied, active, and healthy while they stay away from these health-damaging habits.
