Tips for Seniors

Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is caused by the wearing down of cartilage in the joints of the body, causing varying degrees of pain, stiffness and swelling. Osteoporosis affects many people over the age of 70. However, there are preventative measures and coping strategies that can help seniors with the disease remain active and enjoy a good quality of life.

	Symptoms
		Pain in or around a joint
		Stiffness or problems in moving a joint
		Swelling sometimes in a joint
	What to do to help prevent Osteoporosis
		Be screened – painless bone density
		Include calcium in your diet
		Get enough vitamin D
		Be active
		Avoid smoking
		Try to prevent falls
	Who is at risk? Older women are especially at risk for osteoporosis. Some risk factors include:
		Slender, small bones
		Low calcium diet
		Low physical activity
		Ovaries removed or menopause before age 45
		Past menopause
		Vitamin D deficiency
		Cigarette smoking
		Too much caffeine or alcohol intake
		Family history of osteoporosis
		Excessive use of some medicines (ie. Cortisone, prednisome, anticonvulsants)
		Previous fracture
	Prevention
		Include calcium in your diet (1000 – 1500 mg)
		Get enough vitamin D
		Be active every day
		Avoid smoking
	Be careful about falling!
	Treatments:
		Hormone Therapy
		Pain Management
		Get Diagnosed