On October 20th each year, World Osteoporosis Day raises awareness for millions of older adults who suffer from this debilitating condition. By recognizing WOD, the staff at Wickshire Senior Living commit to doing everything possible to prevent osteoporosis from negatively impacting the lives of residents. Additionally, policymakers, the media, and health care professionals hold events around the country to help people understand the devastating consequences of osteoporosis.
What Is Osteoporosis?
The founders of World Osteoporosis Day wanted older adults to understand the impact of weak bones. Men and women over the age of 50 are more prone to develop the condition. Those with osteoporosis have fragile bones that can break with sudden movements, bumps, sneezes, or falls. Furthermore, the complications of this disease often cause long-term disability and pain.
Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention
The proper diet and exercise can help prevent osteoporosis and bone fractures. It’s never too late to make positive changes that can promote bone health and strength. Here are a few things you can do to help prevent osteoporosis:
- Add calcium to your diet-Your body needs calcium, and lots of it, to build strong bones. Women, in particular, may start to lose more bone density following menopause. Eating foods rich in calcium can help slow or reverse some effects of osteoporosis.
- Increase your intake of vitamin D-You need enough vitamin D to absorb calcium from your diet. So, consider adding vitamin D supplementation to your daily vitamins.
- Practice weight-bearing exercises-Dancing, running, jogging, aerobics, and tennis are examples of exercises that can help prevent bone loss. These exercises may improve bone mineral density and overall health.
Yoga and other activities available through our recreational programs can help residents keep their bones strong.
Benefits of Physical Therapy Services
Physical therapy (PT) helps older adults regain their strength.
Here are some of the advantages of PT for older adults:
- Rehabilitation following a fall or other injury
- Increased mobility
- Improved pain without possibly addictive painkillers
- Faster recovery from paralysis or a stroke
Weakness may set in following a hospital stay. With physical therapy, our residents often regain their strength and return to a more active lifestyle.
What to Expect in Physical Therapy
If the resident’s doctor prescribes physical therapy, your loved one will work one on one with a physical therapist to aid the healing process. Residents receive an individual treatment plan, which may include restrictions and goals recommended by a doctor. PT can help our residents strengthen bones and build bone density. Therefore, it’s essential to follow the instructions of the physical therapist for a rapid recovery.
Your loved one can improve their range of motion, pain management, or other health goals in physical therapy.
Here are some of the benefits of PT:
- Increase muscle tone through toning exercises
- Improve core strength and range of motion
- Build up heart function with cardio exercises
- Strengthen bones and build muscles with targeted exercises
With the help of qualified physical therapists available on-site, our residents receive the care they need to help avoid osteoporosis. We also offer occupational therapy for residents who need it.
Seek Support at Wickshire Senior Living
Visit our community to find out how we embrace osteoporosis awareness for older adults. Our dedicated, caring staff members provide numerous services to help residents stay engaged and active.