Osteoporosis is common in elderly persons. While it is more common in women, senior men can develop it, too. Some information can help you live and cope with this condition.
What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones have become weaker and less dense than they were in the past. 
Aging is the main risk factor for developing osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis itself generally does not cause pain. This is one factor that makes it different from rheumatoid arthritis. However, while pain is rarely an issue, the risks associated with osteoporosis can make the condition dangerous.
Bones that are not as strong and dense are prone to fractures. You are more likely to suffer from broken bones when you have this condition. While broken bones in the elderly can take a longer time to heal, a senior citizen who experiences broken bones can have other complications. A common example is developing pneumonia because you cannot easily move about when you have a broken bone.
A second issue connected to osteoporosis is a spinal deformity. This condition, known as kyphosis, can affect your mobility and is often painful.
Healthier Bones Mass Through Diet
There are a number of ways dietary changes can affect your bones.
Milk enriched with Vitamin D can increase bone strength, density, and health. The Vitamin D is especially important if you do not have enough exposure to natural sunlight.
A nutritious diet that is plentiful in vitamins and minerals can increase bone health. Vitamins C, E, K, and A, as well as iron, zinc, and magnesium, should be in your daily diet.
Choose fresh, whole foods over processed foods. While processed foods are unhealthy in general, they usually contain too much sodium. Avoid adding salt to your meals.
You can also increase bone health by not smoking, and not consuming too much alcohol. Ask your doctor for advice if you cannot easily give up these habits.
Osteoporosis And Exercise
Bone loss can be increased by immobilization. If you have a sedentary lifestyle, you need to become more active. You should not attempt to take on strenuous exercise if you are not accustomed to it. For most seniors, moderate exercise every day should be the goal.
Exercise will keep your bones as healthy as possible. It is good for your general health and your state of mind, too.
Decreasing The Risks Of Fractures
Falling is the most common way seniors with osteoporosis develop fractures. You can take some steps to decrease this risk.
Flooring in your home should be secure. If possible, carpeting throughout your house or apartment is the best option. It is easy to slip and fall on tile floors, and to trip over rugs that are not secured to the floor.
If you have a stairway in your home, carpeting is ideal. Stairways should be well-lighted. Lighting strips are a safe alternative to light bulbs that must be turned off and on with a string or chain.
Falling in the bathroom can be a problem. You can reduce this risk by keeping all surfaces in your bathroom dry. You can also ask someone to attach railings around your toilet, bathtub, and shower.
Your home should always be free from clutter, and you should have appropriate lighting in every room.
Living With Osteoporosis
Whether you are male or female, a young senior or elderly, these tips can help you stay healthy. You can avoid falling, and reduce your risk of dangerous fractures.
An overall healthy lifestyle can make it easier to cope with osteoporosis. It does not have to be a serious problem in your life.