Even though osteoporosis is generally considered a disorder more prevalent in older menopausal women, it's actually possible for men to get osteoporosis as well. That's why getting checked for osteoporosis in men non-invasively is crucial.
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.
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. We focus way too often on our heart, brain, or even lungs (if we smoke).
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.
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.
Most doctors don't even inquire about or think of osteoporosis for men, because it's so commonly considered to be primarily a woman's illness. It's similar to those times in the past when heart attacks were considered to be the primary domain of men, so that women weren't even looked at if they displayed heart attack symptoms.
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.
Of course, men do not go through menopause (which is the biggest risk factor for women for osteoporosis), 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:
However, other issues may be treated with medications or lifestyle changes:
Each of these risk factors has something you can do about it. You can start getting active, you can quit smoking, avoid drinking, you can start fixing your diet, and so on. Do not think you are helpless in this situation.
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:
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.
Many people are unaware that this test is a possibility, so they don't even consider it. After all, how can you know what your bones are doing inside your body? At least your heart or brain gives out certain outward symptoms when they are disordered.
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.
Taking vitamin D, magnesium, zinc, and calcium supplements to keep strong bones even as you age is crucial.
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.
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:
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.
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:
However, your medical professional may recommend taking a supplement if your levels remain low.
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.
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.
Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more prone to fractures. While it's commonly associated with women, millions of men, especially those over 65, are also affected. In men, bone loss often progresses silently until a fall or fracture occurs, typically in the hip, spine, or wrist.
Osteoporosis in men can result from several factors, including low testosterone levels, long-term use of corticosteroids, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of calcium or vitamin D. Chronic illnesses such as kidney disease or gastrointestinal disorders may also contribute to weakened bone density over time.
Osteoporosis often develops without noticeable symptoms. However, early warning signs can include a gradual loss of height, back pain, stooped posture, or fractures from minor falls. Men should request a bone density test (DEXA scan) if they have risk factors or symptoms.
Prevention focuses on healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating a calcium- and vitamin D-rich diet, engaging in regular weight-bearing exercise, limiting alcohol, and avoiding tobacco. Maintaining healthy hormone levels through medical consultation is also important for bone strength.
Doctors may prescribe medications like bisphosphonates, testosterone replacement therapy (if appropriate), or other bone-building drugs. These treatments, combined with diet and exercise, can significantly slow bone loss and reduce fracture risk.
Men are less likely than women to be screened for osteoporosis, which can delay diagnosis and treatment. Raising awareness ensures earlier detection, effective management, and better long-term bone health for senior 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.
Contact us today to schedule a tour!