Risk Factors of Osteoporosis for Men

Osteoporosis is often considered a health condition that women only need to worry about because women are more likely than men to develop this condition, but it doesn’t mean that older men shouldn’t be concerned about it as well. Senior home care providers can assist them with chores they may no longer be able to do easily.

Senior Home Care York, PA - Risk Factors of Osteoporosis for Men

Senior Home Care York, PA – Risk Factors of Osteoporosis for Men

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a health condition in which the bones become weak and brittle, making it much easier to have a bone break or fracture, sometimes even with the most stress, such as coughing or twisting in a particular direction too quickly. Because bone tissue is constantly being broken down and replaced within the body, if a person’s body slows down too much with the rebuilding aspect, the bones don’t get the tissue they need to remain strong.

Osteoporosis Risk Factors for Men

While one of the largest risk factors of developing osteoporosis is being a woman, other risk factors can increase the likelihood of a man developing this condition as well. In fact, 25 percent of men over the age of 50 will eventually break a bone due to osteoporosis, and men are more likely to suffer severe complications from a major break than women.

Some of the factors that can increase the risk of osteoporosis in men include:

  • A family history
  • Being a smoker
  • Not being regularly active
  • Drinking too much alcohol
  • Obesity
  • Not getting enough Vitamin D
  • Taking steroids
  • Having low testosterone levels
  • Having other medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease, and cancer.

Osteoporosis Symptoms in Men

Early symptoms of osteoporosis are not noticeable, and most people don’t get diagnosed with osteoporosis until they break their first bone, but there are other symptoms that you may notice if your loved one has gotten lucky enough not to have broken a bone since their bone health has declined.

Those symptoms can include:

  • Loss of height.
  • A stooped posture.
  • Back pain, which can be caused by a weakened spine
  • Easily broken bones

Making Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Osteoporosis

If you are concerned about your elderly loved one developing osteoporosis or if he’s already broken one bone and you want to help him reduce the risk of breaking more bones, there are lifestyle changes you can help him implement that will help build up his bone strength or at least reduce the speed at which it’s being depleted.

For many older individuals who live on their own, making lifestyle changes and sticking to them can be tough. It’s hard to break decades’ worth of bad habits. In these cases, it can be helpful to have supportive friends and family or a trained senior home care provider help by providing support, encouragement, and assistance.

Four Changes for Healthier Bones

Stop smoking and drinking. Both of these are easier said than done for many, so make sure your loved one has the support he needs if he wants to take steps toward quitting either or both habits.

Eat healthier. Enjoy foods that provide the necessary nutrients for strong bones.

Get regular exercise. Exercise can build up muscle strength to support his bones.

Get plenty of sunshine. Sunshine is the best source of vitamin D.

Senior home care providers are great at helping with preparing healthier meals for your loved one or encouraging more physical activity. If your loved one needs transportation to a local senior center to participate in a low-impact physical activity, a senior home care provider can help with transportation.

Source: https://www.bonehealthandosteoporosis.org/preventing-fractures/general-facts/just-for-men/

If you or an aging loved one is considering Senior Home Care Services in York, PA, please get in touch with us. Our friendly staff can answer all of your questions.

In-Home Senior Care in Adams and York Counties, PA. Call Today: (717) 698-8258.

Jessica Ott