Home instead bone health

The good news is that no matter what age you are, it is never too late to build strong bones and avoid dangerous slips and trips. There are a number of steps people can take to prevent osteoporosis and avoid falls;

Healthy Eating;
Ensure your diet is rich in calcium and Vitamin D, as these nutrients help improve bone strength. Calcium is best absorbed from dairy products such as milk, cheese and yoghurt. Oily fish such as salmon, tuna and sardines are all excellent sources of Vitamin D.

Appropriate Exercise;
Resistance training using weights promotes bone health by increasing muscle strength and bone density. However, a person should be assessed by a medical professional to ensure they are doing appropriate exercises.

Avoid alcohol and smoking;
Excess consumption of alcohol can increase the risk of fractures and can affect bone loss. Women should limit their alcohol intake to 14 units per week and men to 21 units per week. The toxins in cigarettes also negatively affect bone health and should be avoided.

Remove home hazards;
At least one third of all falls suffered by older people involve environmental hazards in the home, so it is important to reduce clutter, especially in walk areas such as hallways.

Have your eyes checked by an optician;
Poor vision can increase your chance of falling.   An optician will ensure you are wearing the correct lenses or check if you have a condition such as glaucoma or cataracts that limits vision.

Home Instead Senior Care  have produced a booklet “Beat the Break – a guide to Osteoporosis, Healthy Bones and Fall Prevention” please contact us if you would like to obtain a copy.

We welcome a visit from you to our offices at Marlinstown Office Park  at any time.  Alternatively you can call on 044 93 85260 or visit www.homeinstead.ie  Email: j.acton@homeinsteadm.ie

“Instead of worry – there’s Home Instead Senior Care”