PREVENTION: Elderly people with osteoporosis should take every precaution to avoid accidental falls. This disease is responsible for many of the hip, wrist, and spinal fractures that occur in elderly women. If glasses are necessary for general vision, they should always be worn. A cane or walker should be used if you do not feel steady on your feet, or if one has been recommended. Shoes and slippers should have skid-resistant soles. Additionally, handrails in bathrooms and sturdy banister rails along all stairs inside and outside should be installed for safety.
TREATMENT: Treatment of osteoporosis is geared toward halting, or at least slowing down the progress of the disease. This may involve increased calcium intake, estrogen replacement therapy (provided there are no contraindications), physical therapy and weight-bearing exercise.
At least six glasses of milk or equivalent servings of other high-calcium foods such as cheese or yogurt and a small supplement of vitamin D may be prescribed to be taken daily. Oral calcium supplements may also be prescribed. For postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, estrogen-replacement therapy has been shown to be the most effective way of slowing down bone loss. Today, many doctors prescribe a combination of estrogen with a synthetic progesterone to simulate the hormonal environment existing before menopause. As with any medication, there may be certain side effects from such a regimen; report any you notice to your physician.
Exercise is very important, especially the kind of exercise that allows your body weight to bear down on your skeletal frame. Those who are bedridden, confined to a wheelchair, or with limited ability to move, physical therapy should be received on a regular basis. While swimming and bicycling are great cardio-workouts, simple walking or light jogging is better for those with osteoporosis. Walking is one of the best exercises for those who do not want to take part in active sports or who cannot do so because of their general health.
SUMMARY: Bone loss to some degree is inevitable as we grow older; however, with osteoporosis, the process is much more pronounced. Bones are weaker and thinner (especially those of the sping), and fractures can occur more easily. New treatments are being developed that may increase bone formation and thereby reverse osteoporosis. Meanwhile, however, the object of treatment is to stop or slow down the process of the disease. Current treatment involves an increased intake of calcium, estrogen replacement therapy, physical therapy and weight bearing exercise. Preventative therapy for premenopausal women consists of a diet high in calcium and vitamin D and regular exercise.
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