Osteoporosis in Older People: Causes, Risks, and Prevention Strategies for Healthy Aging

Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by the decrease and thinning of bone mass, accompanied by structural disturbances in the bones, which can lead to fractures—breaks, cracks, or complete breaks in the bones.

There are three types of osteoporosis:

1. Primary Osteoporosis

   • Type 1: Osteoporosis that occurs due to low estrogen levels in women.
   • Type 2: Senile osteoporosis, which results from the aging process and an imbalance between the rate of bone breakdown (osteoclasts) and new bone formation (osteoblasts).

2. Secondary Osteoporosis: Occurs due to insufficient sun exposure, certain medical conditions, or the use of specific medications.

3. Idiopathic Juvenile Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis with an unknown cause, which can occur in children and young adults who have normal hormone levels and function, normal vitamin levels, and no clear reason for bone fragility.

Several factors influence the development of osteoporosis. The first category includes non-modifiable factors, which cannot be prevented or controlled, such as old age, female gender (as women are at higher risk), and genetics or a family history of osteoporosis. The second category includes modifiable factors, which are preventable risk factors, such as excessive consumption of alcohol or soda, smoking habits, insufficient intake of vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, low body weight, lack of physical activity and exercise, and the use of certain medications.

Osteoporosis is often referred to as a “silent disease” because it typically does not cause symptoms until a fracture occurs. In addition to pain from broken or cracked bones, individuals with osteoporosis may experience symptoms such as height loss, abnormal posture (hunching), and severe back pain due to spinal fractures. As bone density decreases further, fractures may occur even with minimal trauma, such as a minor fall, bending over, lifting objects, or even coughing.

Older people over the age of 65 are at the highest risk of osteoporosis, accounting for nearly 75% of hip, spine, and wrist fractures in this age group. Preventing osteoporosis in older people plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health and reducing fracture risk. The following steps can help prevent osteoporosis in older individuals:

• Consume Foods Rich in Calcium and Vitamin D: Calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone health. Older adults are advised to consume calcium-rich foods such as low-fat milk, cheese, yogurt, nuts, and leafy green vegetables. Additionally, adequate sun exposure can help the body produce vitamin D.

• Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Regular physical activity helps maintain bone strength and density. Weight-bearing and resistance exercises have been proven effective in stimulating new bone formation and preserving bone strength.

• Quit Smoking and Avoid Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can weaken bone health. Older individuals are encouraged to avoid these habits to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

• Reduce Fall Risks: Minimizing fall risks is an essential part of osteoporosis prevention in older people. This includes improving home lighting, removing obstacles that may cause falls, using assistive devices such as handrails and railings, and wearing safe and comfortable footwear.

• Monitor Bone Health: Older individuals at high risk or with a history of osteoporosis should regularly monitor their bone health through bone density tests (densitometry). This helps detect osteoporosis or bone density loss at an early stage, allowing for timely preventive or treatment measures.

• Consult Healthcare Professionals: Older adults are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals for a personal risk assessment of osteoporosis and to receive appropriate guidance on preventive measures.

By following these steps, older individuals can reduce their risk of osteoporosis and maintain good bone health for a more active and independent future.