Osteoporosis, or the gradual thinning of bone tissue and loss of bone density over time, is a disease that can lead to increased risk of fractures, particularly those that occur in situations where healthy people would otherwise not break a bone.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation uses the month of May to spread awareness about osteoporosis. The disease is often preventable and manageable, and information is the first step towards ensuring good bone health.

Although lifestyle changes can often prevent osteoporosis, it is still a common disease. Estimates suggest that half of all women and up to one in four men older than 50 will eventually break a bone because of osteoporosis. Breaking a bone, especially when you’re older, is serious and can be very painful.

Detecting osteoporosis is difficult without a bone density test. It is important, once you’re older, to have your bone density tested every few years, or more often if your tests score low in density.

Luckily, osteoporosis prevention has much in common with many things we consider important to our general health. Getting enough calcium, vitamin D and regular exercise is important for your bones. Eating fruits and vegetables, in addition to having many other health benefits, can also help prevent osteoporosis. Treatment for osteoporosis can vary based on sex and age, but medication and nutritional intervention have both been shown to be effective.

Bone health is important, no matter your age. This May, speak with the seniors in your life about the importance of good nutrition and bone density scans, and make sure to examine your own health habits to see how you can further prevent osteoporosis.

At AlmaVia of San Francisco, we provide residents in our Assisted Living program with reminders and transportation so they are able to keep their regular doctor’s appointments—critical to maintaining good health.  For more information on our Assisted Living program, please call us at (415) 508-5500, or by email at info@almaviaofsanfrancisco.org.