{"id":9742,"date":"2024-10-28T09:26:46","date_gmt":"2024-10-28T14:26:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bentonhouse.com\/?p=9742"},"modified":"2024-11-03T08:51:56","modified_gmt":"2024-11-03T14:51:56","slug":"maintaining-joint-and-bone-health-in-seniors-guide-to-staying-active-and-strong","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bentonhouse.com\/blog\/maintaining-joint-and-bone-health-in-seniors-guide-to-staying-active-and-strong\/","title":{"rendered":"Maintaining Joint and Bone Health for Seniors: A Guide to Staying Active and Strong"},"content":{"rendered":"

As we age, caring for our bones\u00a0and joints becomes essential for maintaining independence, reducing discomfort, and continuing to enjoy an active lifestyle. Healthy bones and joints are vital for mobility and balance, and they play a central role in preventing injuries like fractures. Here, we\u2019ll explore the importance of bone and joint health for seniors and share practical tips on how to maintain it.<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Understanding Bone and Joint Health in Aging<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

With age, our bodies naturally undergo changes that can affect bone density and joint health.\u00a0Bone density<\/strong>\u2014the amount of mineral content in bones\u2014tends to decrease over time, especially after menopause in women, making bones more brittle and prone to fractures. According to the\u00a0National Institute on Aging<\/em><\/a>, this bone loss contributes to conditions like\u00a0osteoporosis<\/strong>, which affects about 54 million Americans and increases the risk of fractures even from minor falls. Joint health is also impacted by aging as the cartilage in joints gradually wears down, leading to\u00a0osteoarthritis<\/strong>, a common condition among older adults. Osteoarthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and inflammation, especially in weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees (Arthritis Foundation<\/i><\/a>). Knowing about these changes allows seniors to take proactive steps to support bone and joint health.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Nutrition for Strong Bones and Joints<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

Diet plays a major role in bone and joint health. Here are some of the key nutrients seniors should focus on:<\/span><\/p>\n