What is Osteopenia?

Osteopenia is a condition that occurs when the body doesn't make new bone as quickly as it reabsorbs old bone. Medical experts say the biggest risk of osteopenia is it can lead to osteoporosis, a more serious, debilitating disease. Both osteopenia and osteoporosis are found in a bone density test, which measures the mass and strength of the bone. If bone density level is low based on the person’s age, they will be diagnosed with osteopenia. A finding of very low bone density is a sign of osteoporosis and causes fragile, easily fractured bones.

While 54 million Americans have osteoporosis, half of all Americans over the age of 50 have osteopenia. Women post-menopausal are most at risk but one-third of Asian and white men over the age of 50 also have osteopenia. Everyone’s bones get weaker with age but smoking; excessive consumption of alcohol; a diet low in calcium, vitamin D, and certain medications; or medical conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, among others puts an individual at a greater risk for osteopenia.

Typically osteopenia is asymptomatic (until it develops into osteoporosis), and is discovered with a bone density test. The painless test uses a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) to assess the level of calcium in the bones.

If you have been diagnosed with osteopenia, it is important to eat foods high in calcium such as leafy green vegetables and dairy; and foods high in vitamin D such as oily or fatty fish, mackerel and fortified cereal. Weight-bearing exercises (at least 30 minutes on most days) are those where your feet touch the ground like running and walking. Swimming and biking are not. For the best health include both weight-bearing and strengthening exercises in your weekly regimen.

MorningStar of Hillsboro offers adults 55+ a lifestyle of comfort, wellbeing and community. Our range of onsite amenities, services, wellness programs and activities are designed for stress-free retirement years. We are committed to providing the best senior living in Hillsboro, OR and invite you to set up a tour to see our exceptional community. MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Hillsboro, OR offers.

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