Osteoporosis in Men: What Seniors Should Know

Situated on the banks of the Colorado River, the warm climate of Bullhead City, AZ, makes it a welcoming city for many seniors. And if you struggle with aching joints, the warm, dry Arizona climate could be just what the doctor ordered. According to the Arthritis Foundation, it's the perfect combination to keep you moving with less discomfort.

But while arthritis is commonly understood to affect both men and women, there can be some confusion when it comes to osteoporosis. While it's true that more women than men develop this condition, osteoporosis in men can cause serious consequences. Often known as the silent disease, unless you're proactive, you may only realize you have it when you fracture a bone.

In this article, we'll take a deep dive into what seniors should know about osteoporosis in men and how the dry climate of Bullhead City can help. We'll explore bone loss prevention strategies and the role of calcium and vitamin D in keeping your bones as dense and strong as possible into your golden years.

Osteoporosis in Men 101

We all want to remain as independent as possible for as long as we can. Strong bones are essential for remaining upright and mobile, yet they can be overlooked during health checks.

Why We Lose Bone Density

Many women experience a rapid drop in bone density during menopause. However, what is less well known is that many men also experience a gradual, yet dangerous, loss of bone mass as they age.

Our bone density peaks between the ages of 25 and 30. After 40, most people begin to lose bone mass. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, the bone lost is not replaced fast enough by the body, leading to brittle bones.

Why Men Are at Risk

If you get a fracture after the age of 50, it may be a sign that you are developing osteoporosis. The problem is that even after fractures, men are less likely to undergo investigations for osteoporosis. Due to a lack of awareness, it's also less likely that men will be started on osteoporosis treatment.

This is very dangerous, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. It states that men are more likely to have complications and even die as a result of major fractures, such as hip fractures.

Risk Factors for Osteoporosis in Men

Of course, men do not go through menopause, but aside from this, they face many of the same risk factors as women.

According to the Mayo Clinic, these include factors you can't control, such as:

Being of Caucasian or Asian descent
Having a close family member with osteoporosis
Having a smaller body frame
Suffering from thyroid issues

However, other issues may be treated with medications or lifestyle changes:

Having lower levels of estrogen or testosterone
Taking certain steroid-based medications
Smoking
Drinking to excess
Being sedentary

What Men Should Do

It's wise for all older men to get themselves checked out for potential osteoporosis. This can be done with a non-invasive bone density scan. MedlinePlus states that it involves:

Lying on a padded table
Allowing scanning machines to pass over you and under you
Staying still as the scanners do their work

The test only takes between 10 and 30 minutes. But if you get a diagnosis of osteoporosis, your doctor could start you on medication that can help slow down bone loss.

Additionally, where you live can have an impact on the symptoms of osteoporosis. A dry, warm climate is kinder to the joints and can even be considered a bone loss prevention strategy. Also, it gives you more opportunities to soak in the sunshine, vital for maintaining healthy vitamin D levels.

How Men Can Increase Bone Mass

While osteoporosis in men is serious, there are many natural ways to improve the situation. Talk to your doctor about the following supplements and strategies to see what would work best for you.

Increase Calcium Intake

We've always been told that calcium is important for strong bones. It turns out this is just as true in our senior years as it was when we were young. Calcium is a major structural component of bone, so increasing our intake can help our bodies harden and strengthen our skeleton.

You can get calcium in the following delicious ways:

Milk, cheese, and yogurt
Salmon and sardines
Soy milk
Kale, broccoli, and collard greens

Assisted living communities provide three nutritious, chef-prepared meals each day, supporting senior men's health. They can help you get the minerals you need in the tastiest way possible.

Supplement With Vitamin D

Our bodies need vitamin D to put calcium to work in strengthening our bones. Our bodies can make it when exposed to sunlight. Also, we can get it from certain foods.

These include:

Egg yolks
Trout
Mackerel

However, your doctor may recommend taking a supplement if your levels remain low.

Stop Smoking and Excessive Drinking

Quitting smoking and no longer drinking to excess are two ways to support your bone health. While it may be a struggle at first, your body will soon thank you! Talk to your doctor about programs that could help.

Get Moving

Our bones need exercise just as much as our muscles do! As we get older, it can be hard to find the motivation to move as much as we did in the past. However, assisted living communities can help with fitness sessions tailored to seniors' needs.

Other great options include walking, hiking, and climbing stairs.

How Davis Place Senior Living Supports Osteoporosis in Men

Osteoporosis in men requires ongoing management, and lifestyle changes can be as effective as medications. At Davis Place, we make it easier for men with osteoporosis to manage their condition and maintain great health.

Our activity calendar features strength exercises for seniors that are an important part of any bone loss prevention strategy. Our buildings and grounds are also designed with fall prevention for men and women in mind. This can encourage you to go outside and get the vitamin D you need for better bone health.

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