Elderly Care near Marina Del Rey, CA – Helping the Loved One with Osteoporosis

There are some startling statistics about osteoporosis. For people over the age of 50 years, half of the women will break a bone as a result of osteoporosis and one fourth of the men will do the same. In other words, this is a very important health issue to be aware of so that you know how to help someone avoid it and how to help someone deal with it if it does arise.

It’s difficult to diagnose because it’s a painless disease. You can’t really feel that your bones are getting thinner; you only know it after the fact, once a fracture occurs. Once your elderly loved one has been diagnosed, there are some things you can do to help them with their treatment program.

First and most importantly, help them follow their doctor’s treatment plan. There will be medications and dietary supplements and an exercise plan to follow. The doctor may also recommend a bone-healthy diet. Each element of the treatment plan is essential but it’s even more important to follow them all as they complement each other.

If it’s difficult for your elderly loved one to maintain their exercise program, consider getting her an elder care provider. This is a caregiver who can not only assist her with an exercise plan, they can also do some of the daily tasks of living that have become difficult for your parent; for example fixing nutritious meals that will bring health to their body.

Before your loved one starts an exercise plan, they should:

• Check with their doctor and make sure it’s appropriately matched to their physical condition. There may also be a physical therapist involved, and in that case they can help your loved one know how to individualize an exercise plan.
• Start slow at first and then increase the level of physical activity as time goes by. At first they may want to consider working out in the water for some resistance but also to cushion the impact a little until they get used to it. Bicycling on a stationary bike is good for the legs and resistance training with some weights will help the arms and back. They should all be done with supervision.
• Interject some variety. It’s good to work different muscles and bones each time. Stretch cords or light hand weights can be used at home; walking or biking can be done for a change, and flexibility exercises such as pilates, tai chi, or yoga are also good exercises for them to do.
• Diet plays a key role. They will need good nutrition for carrying out the exercise program as well as building up the strength and health of their bones. Calcium and magnesium together with some vitamin D are essential for bone health. Broccoli, almonds, leafy vegetables such as spinach, almonds and some dairy products are all good sources of nutrients.

However, if you consider the points raise here today, you’ll have a better idea of when it’s time for in-home care.

And, if you have any follow-up questions, please contact us (310) 400-6869…we are always here to assist…You are Important to Us!

We pride ourselves in the Best In-Home Care!

Caregiving for You, Inc.