Keep Your Bones Strong With Exercise

Did you know half of women and up to a quarter of men in America over 50 will break a bone because of osteoporosis according to the Harvard Medical School. To prevent bones from weakening, the National Institute of Health says exercise is key to keeping bones strong.

If you are taking prescription drugs, you should read the fine print that comes with your medications to see if you are taking any drugs that can lead to bone loss, increase your risk of a fall, and/or increase your risk of breaking a bone. Steroids, blood thinners and thyroid medications as well as drugs used to treat acid reflux, depression and some antibiotics are just a few of the medications known to interfere with bone health.

The Mayo Clinic suggests that to aid in the prevention of bone loss, weight-bearing exercises should be part of your daily aerobic activities. Weight-bearing exercises involve your bones supporting your weight. Examples include walking, dancing, low-impact aerobics, elliptical training machines, stair climbing and gardening. Along with slowing down bone loss, these exercises also provide some protection for better cardiovascular health.

In addition to weight-bearing exercises, doctors remind older adults to also do exercises that focus on balance, strength and flexibility. The NIH recommends for better bone health you should do at least 150 minutes (2.5 hours) a week of moderate-intensity exercise OR at least 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity exercise.

A bone density test can help you determine if you are at risk for osteoporosis and/or whether you already have some bone loss. If your test’s result indicates a problem, your healthcare provider may suggest you take osteoporosis medication to help reduce further bone loss. If you have already been diagnosed with osteoporosis, osteopenia or have other physical limitations, please check with your doctor before beginning any new exercise.

At MorningStar of Hillsboro, we want our residents of retirement communities to live life to the fullest. This is why we offer wellness programs and activities that promote physical, intellectual, social and spiritual wellbeing. Our many services and amenities include beautifully prepared, nutritional meals, art studio, amphitheater, swimming pool and fitness center. If you are considering retirement communities in Hillsboro, OR, MorningStar may be the place for you.

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 homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about one of the finest retirement communities Hillsboro, OR offers.

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