Bone Health as We Age: How to Prevent Fractures, Remain Active

Bone health is something many of us don't think about until a fracture happens. Yet, maintaining strong, healthy bones is critical to living an active and independent life, especially as we age. 

October, recognized as Bone and Joint Health Awareness Month, is a good time to assess your bone health and take action to prevent common conditions like osteoporosis, which often goes undetected until a break occurs.

Why does bone health matter? Our bones are constantly regenerating throughout our lives, but this process slows down as we age, making bones more susceptible to thinning and weakening.

When bone loss outpaces bone formation, conditions such as osteopenia (low bone mass) and osteoporosis can develop, increasing the risk of fractures. Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become weak and more likely to break.

There typically are no symptoms in the early stages of bone loss. But the good news is that many of the risks that lead to bone loss can be managed with the right lifestyle choices and medical care.

"People often don’t realize the importance of bone health until they experience a fracture," says Charles J. Jordan, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon with Baptist Health Orthopedic Care. "Taking early steps to strengthen your bones can prevent long-term problems."

Are You at Risk?

Charles Jordan, M.D., an orthopedic trauma surgeon with Baptist Health Orthopedic Care.

While anyone can experience bone loss, certain factors significantly increase the risk of fractures. Understanding these risks can help guide you in taking proactive steps toward better bone health. 

You may be at higher risk of breaking a bone if:

• You are over the age of 50.
• You have low-bone density, indicated by a T-score of –1.0 or below.
• You’ve experienced a fracture after the age of 50.
• A parent suffered a fracture.
• You smoke.
• You have diabetes.
• You consume two or more alcoholic beverages daily.
• You’ve taken steroid medications for a long period.
• You are prone to frequent falls.
• You have low calcium due to malabsorption or poor diet.
• You have a small body frame.

Understanding these risk factors is the first step to taking control of your bone health.

How to Protect Your Bones

Preventing bone loss and fractures often comes down to making small, but impactful, changes in your daily life. For example, regular exercises such as walking or light strength training can help stimulate bone growth and maintain bone density. Diet also plays a key role. Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D (such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fish) support bone health.

Smoking cessation and limiting alcohol consumption can further reduce your risk of bone loss. In some cases, especially for those with osteopenia or osteoporosis, medical treatments, including medications that strengthen bones, may be necessary.

Dr. Jordan emphasizes: "By understanding your risks and taking proactive steps, you can maintain strong bones well into your later years. It’s about prevention and giving your bones the care they need."

Take Action for Your Bone Health

If you're concerned about your bone health or would like to assess your risk of fractures, consider scheduling a bone health screening. Baptist Health Orthopedic Care’s Bone Health and Fracture Prevention Program offers screenings, education, and personalized treatment plans for managing low-bone mass and preventing fractures. Their multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care, from diagnosis to treatment.

To learn more or to schedule a screening, visit Baptist Health Orthopedic Care or contact their office directly. Protect your bones now, so they can protect you for life.