Osteoporosis in Men: 5 Things Seniors Should Know
Imagine your bones being so weak that even a minor fall results in a painful fracture, and depending on the location, loss of height, and a stooped posture. Unfortunately, this is often the reality for the 10 million Americans, 50 and older, who have osteoporosis. Most are women, leading to the condition's reputation as a "women's disease".
This label has often led to osteoporosis in men being overlooked, despite its impact on approximately 2 million males in the same age category. Awareness of the risk factors is crucial for senior men and can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment, reducing morbidity and mortality associated with osteoporotic fractures.
Prevention is key; however, even after diagnosis, you can still enjoy activities in Prairie Village's parks, shopping areas, and historical sites. Both prevention and management involve maintaining a bone-healthy lifestyle that includes proper diet and exercise. Early screening is also recommended.
Here are five key facts every senior man should know to stay strong and reduce bone loss.
1. Osteoporosis Affects Men Too And It's Often Overlooked
According to the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF), approximately one in four men over 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture. Unfortunately, this is often when the condition is first diagnosed. In some cases, men with a high risk of fractures are under-treated, which can negatively impact their:
- Health
- Physical and functional ability
- Independence
Men typically have a slower rate of bone loss and higher peak bone mass than women, whose bone loss is greater and faster, particularly after menopause due to decreased estrogen levels. These differences are influenced by:
- Hormonal changes
- Bone structure
- Genetics
However, after age 65 or 70, the rate of bone loss in men and women becomes similar, and men's post-fracture outcomes tend to be worse, with a higher mortality rate, particularly from hip fractures.
Regular bone density screenings, healthy lifestyle choices, and addressing potential risk factors are key to improving this often-overlooked area in senior men's health.
2. Risk Factors Unique to Men
Knowing the risk factors associated with osteoporosis that are unique to men can help facilitate timely interventions, including medical treatments that minimize bone loss and fracture risk. Some of the more common risk factors of osteoporosis in men include:
- Age
- Chronic diseases such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis
- Certain medications
- Low testosterone
- Unhealthy habits, including smoking and alcohol consumption
Family history and genetic predisposition also play a significant role in a man's risk of developing osteoporosis. According to HealthCentral, genetics influences between 50% and 85% of the variance in peak bone mass. A family history of osteoporosis also increases the likelihood of developing the condition, particularly if a parent or sibling has experienced fractures.
Additional risks include long-term steroid use, low calcium/Vitamin D intake, and physical inactivity. Daily walks through Meadowbrook Park during the extended daylight hours in spring can help you avoid at least two.
3. Symptoms Are Subtle-Fractures May Be the First Sign
Osteoporosis is often referred to as a "silent disease" because it typically goes undetected until a fracture occurs. While fractures can occur in any bone, certain sites are particularly vulnerable due to how osteoporosis affects them. In men with osteoporosis, the most common fracture sites are the:
- Hip
- Spine (vertebrae)
- Wrist
- Shoulder
Fractures can also occur in bones such as the upper arm (humerus) and ribs, but they are less common than hip, spine, and wrist fractures. They can cause significant pain and result in loss of independence, especially when they occur in the hip.
In addition to fractures, other warning signs of osteoporosis include loss of height, stooped posture, and lower back pain.
4. Prevention and Lifestyle Changes Matter at Any Age
Even if you have one or more unique risk factors associated with osteoporosis in men, developing the condition isn't inevitable. A bone healthy lifestyle is crucial for bone strength in aging. It also reduces the risk of osteoporosis and fractures and can improve overall quality of life.
The key components of a bone-healthy lifestyle include:
Regular Exercise
Weight-bearing and resistance exercises are important for senior men. Weight-bearing exercises include walking, jogging, and stair climbing, while resistance exercises mainly involve weightlifting. Both help stimulate bone growth and strengthen bones.
Balanced Diet
A balanced diet is essential at any age for maintaining energy levels and overall well-being. For seniors, it can also reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including osteoporosis. Assisted living communities in the area, like Addington Place of Prairie Village, provide chef-prepared meals that ensure residents get adequate calcium and vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health.
Avoidance of Smoking and Excessive Alcohol
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption negatively impact bone health and increase the risk of osteoporosis. Both can impair bone density, increasing fracture risk and hindering bone repair.
Fall Prevention
Exercise and a balanced diet can improve cognitive function, bone and muscle health, helping to prevent falls. Both are crucial to aging safely. Home safety modifications and medication management can also reduce the risk of falls and fractures.
Other Healthy Habits
Managing stress and getting enough sleep also contribute to overall well-being, which positively impacts bone health. If you have any risk factors, consider bone density testing at age 65 or earlier.
5. Treatment Options Are Available and Effective
An early diagnosis of osteoporosis facilitates timely intervention that can help determine the most appropriate treatment options. Effective treatment usually includes a personalized plan that considers:
- Individual risk factors
- Medical history
- Lifestyle
Osteoporosis care often involves medications that slow bone breakdown or stimulate new bone formation. This helps improve bone density and reduces fracture risk. Your healthcare provider will monitor medication side effects, if any, and conduct regular assessments to ensure proper management of underlying conditions.
Managing Osteoporosis in Men
Osteoporosis in men is often overlooked, leading to underdiagnosis and undertreatment. It's a serious condition that can result in significant pain and potentially affect mobility. Lifestyle changes such as exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent the condition, but also assist in managing it.
Addington Place of Prairie Village makes both possible. We offer a variety of activities to improve overall well-being and chef-prepared homestyle dining with a healthy twist. Schedule a tour today to start enjoying the best that Prairie Village, KS has to offer!