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4 Ways Seniors Can Keep Their Bones and Joints Healthy

Senior Care in San Juan Capistrano CA: The body goes through many changes as we age, which also includes the health of our joints and bones.

Senior Care in San Juan Capistrano CA

The body goes through many changes as we age, which also includes the health of our joints and bones. Bone loss can occur with old age, causing the development of osteoporosis, which will increase the elder’s chances of breaking a bone. The joints connect the bones, while also allowing us to bend our knees, elbows, hips, head, toes, and fingers. Both of these components are important because they allow us to easily move.

Older adults lose their mobility because they have not taken proper care of their bones and joints. With this loss comes the inability to complete even the simplest tasks because it may become too painful for the senior to accomplish. An elderly care provider may be needed to provide assistance with these tasks, which may range from help them brush their hair and teeth to preparing meals and doing the laundry. No matter what their age, there is still time to improve the health and strength of these two important areas of the body.

 

How to Improve the Health of the Bones and Joints

  1. Consume plenty of calcium and vitamin D. These two components are the key ingredients to healthy bones. The Institute of Medicine recommends that women get 1,200 mg of calcium per day, while men get 1,000 mg per day. Seniors should consume three servings of calcium-rich foods per day, which includes low-fat cheese, yogurt, broccoli, and leafy green veggies. Vitamin D can easily be found in sunlight or fortified milk, juice, and yogurt. Supplements for both calcium and vitamin D can be taken also.
  2. Exercise. Physical activities can do wonderful things for the body, including strengthening the joints and losing any extra weight. Exercises that will increase the heart rate, such as aerobic exercises are best because they can help reduce joint swelling. Make sure the elder consults with their doctor before beginning any new workout regimen.
  3. Build muscle mass. Another excellent way to enhance the health of the muscles and joints is to weight train. These exercises can help by strengthening the muscles, which in turn will help protect all of its surrounding ligaments.
  4. Eat a diet rich in whole foods. Older adults need more nutrients and vitamins than other age groups, so it is important that they eat as many whole foods as possible. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and nuts are the perfect place to start for a healthy food that will provide the elder with all of the nutrients their body needs.

 

Healthy bones and joints can help prevent a number of health conditions, including arthritis and fall-related injuries. These tips should help your loved one become much healthier as they age.

 

If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in San Juan Capistrano, CA, please contact the caring staff at Canaan Home Care today! 1-844-CANAAN-1 (1-844-226-2261)

 

Source:

http://www.webmd.com/arthritis/caring-your-joints#1

http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/nutrition-world-2/bone-strength

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