If you have a loved one who is an older adult, you probably try to keep updated with their health situations. For elderly individuals, there are an overabundance of possible illnesses which could be experienced. The most important thing you can do to help keep your loved one well and make sure they are getting the care and medical attention they need is to be informed about various diseases which affect senior health. One commonly occurring illness diagnosed in older adults is osteoporosis.
What is Osteoporosis and how does it Affect Senior Health?
Osteoporosis is a disease of the bone and it occurs when there is too much bone loss in the body. This disease can also occur if the body does not produce enough bone material. As a result, the bones start to become extremely weak and can break easily. If someone who has this disease has a fall, even a minor one, they may obtain a broken bone.
Who is at Risk?
This disease is common in older adults, especially women who are 50 years old or older. In addition, any woman who has gone through menopause could possibly develop this disease. However, it is also found in many male seniors. If parents have the disease, it is likely that their children will have osteoporosis as well. People who have autoimmune disorders may also be at increased risk. Another risk factor is the build of the individual’s body. Those who are more petite and thinner may be at risk because there is less bone mass in smaller bodies.
Diet has an impact on the condition of the bones. If an individual does not eat foods that contain enough of vitamins C and D as well as minerals like potassium, there might be a higher risk for osteoporosis to set in. The disease could also have an impact on people who deal with anorexia because of their nutrient-lacking diet.
Symptoms and Signs of Osteoporosis
Because of its sometimes undetectable symptoms, osteoporosis is often called the “silent disease”. The symptoms are hard to see because osteoporosis does not create problems until a bone fracture actually occurs. The main indicator is the major pain that will be felt as the result of a bone fracture. Some fractures may occur in the back, which may eventually lead to the curved or hunched back that many seniors experience. Chronic back pain may also be a result of the fracturing in the spine.
Seeking Help For Your Loved One for Senior Health Needs
The first and most important thing you should do is make sure the older adult in your life receives medical attention. Be sure to have your them examined by a doctor you trust. If your loved one has osteoporosis, medical attention is necessary. And after that? Florida First Senior Home Care can assist you in finding caring solutions for the senior you love. We offer caregiver home assistance referrals and caregivers listed within our network may provide physical help as well as companionship for your loved one. General care such as feeding, dressing and meal preparation may also be a part of what caregivers do to ensure that your friend or family member has the absolute best senior health care possible. Here at Florida First Senior Home Care, we understand that Osteoporosis is a degenerative disorder and our services may connect you with a caregiver who can provide for the specific needs of those fighting diseases in this category. Please call us today at (561) 266-3558 (Boca Raton) or (954) 800-6000 (Broward) or visit our website to set up a free consultation. Get the care your loved one deserves.