When someone ages, their bones can start to get weaker. This is because they lose some bone mass. Research shows that some people will start losing bone mass as young as 30 years of age. The problem is that when someone’s bones get weaker, they have a higher risk of getting fractures and an increased risk of falling, too. If you or home care providers are caring for your elderly loved one, there are some tips for increasing their bone health. These tips will help to keep their bones stronger and help prevent falls, as well.
Drinking Enough Milk and Eat More Dairy Products
One of the best tips for increasing bone health in elderly adults is making sure they are drinking enough milk. Milk and other dairy products have Vitamin D and calcium in them. Vitamin D helps your loved one’s body to absorb calcium better. The calcium helps to create healthier bones. If your loved one isn’t taking in enough calcium, their bones are going to feel it. They will start experiencing bone loss. Make sure your loved one is getting enough yogurt, cheese, and milk in their diet.
Eating More Leafy Greens
Another way that you can help your loved one to improve their bone health is by assuring they eat enough leafy greens. Research shows that leafy greens have a lot of Vitamin K in them. Research shows Vitamin K2 activates blood proteins which bind the calcium to the bones. This increases bone strength and reduces the risk of fractures. If your loved one isn’t doing so already, make sure they are eating more kale, spinach, and romaine lettuce.
Protein Balance in the Diet
If you are trying to improve your loved one’s bone health, you should also make sure they are getting enough protein in their diet. However, some people have a tough time balancing the protein into their diet. They might get too much protein, mainly from meat products. This could cause the body to get rid of too much calcium. They may not get enough protein. This could cause the body not to have the proper minerals to absorb the calcium. Research shows that people need an average of 54 to 68 grams of protein every day. However, your loved one should ask their primary care doctor how much they should be getting.
These are some of the best tips for increasing bone health in your elderly loved one. If you or home care providers are with your loved one every day, be sure they are getting more of these things in their diet to boost their bone strength and bone health.
Sources
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/staying-healthy/healthy-bones-at-every-age
https://www.bones.nih.gov/health-info/bone/bone-health/bone-health-life-health-information-basics-you-and-your-family
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/how-much-protein-per-day
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE IS CONSIDERING HOME CARE IN YOUNGSVILLE, NC, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT SENIORS HELPING SENIORS TODAY. CALL (919) 761-5346.