Timeless May 2020 | Page 33

Exercising to prevent osteoporosis By Kim Monsour Contributing columnist A ppropriate exercise, when done with proper technique, is both safe and beneficial for elderly individuals with osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition where bone mass and density is lost over a relatively long period of time. In the beginning, individuals with osteoporosis may not even know that they have a problem because there are no symptoms. As bone tissue deteriorates over time, people with osteoporosis are more susceptible to fractures in the hip, wrist, shoulder, and spine are the most common among older individuals suffering from osteoporosis. Unfortunately, osteoporosis can sometimes make bones so brittle that even coughing or bending over can cause a fracture. As we age, we lose bone mass much faster than we can create it. On average, peak bone mass is reached around age 30. After the age of 30, the body no longer produces bone mass at the same rate as it did earlier in life. There are a number of factors that contribute to the development of osteoporosis: gender, age, race, genetics, medical conditions, and lifestyle factors. While we cannot control our age, gender, race, genetics or whether or not we end up with a medical condition, we can most definitely control our lifestyle. Lifestyle choices such as a proper diet, sufficient exercise, consuming less alcohol and not smoking can help prevent or slow down the development of osteoporo- sis for individuals of all ages. continued on page 34 Monsour 2000 24th Avenue. Meridian, MS 39301 | FREE CITY WIDE DELIVERY | Fast Prescription Service | Friendly & Knowledgeable Pharmacist | Over-the-Counter Medications | Vitamins, Supplements & Personal Care | Flu Shots & Vaccines | Monthly packing system available To you, it’s about making the right choice. To us... it’s personal. Whether you are looking for someone to help an aging parent a few hours a week or need more comprehensive assistance, Home Instead can help. Pet Prescriptions Also Filled Here! Most Prescription Plans Accepted Each Home Instead Senior Care Franchise is independently owned and operated. © 2020 Home Instead, Inc. www.meridianstar.com PERSONAL CARE | MEMORY CARE | MEALS & NUTRITION Robin Hull Owner/Operator RN,BSN,MPH Drew Moffett, Pharm. D Learn more at HomeInstead.com/809 or call 601.286.3242 Business Number: 601-693-0033 •33