Avoiding the Breaks of Retirement (and Osteoporosis)

It is important to note that the reason many women develop osteoporosis is because menopause robs them of the estrogen that helps protect the bones from becoming brittle. That is not the sole cause though.

Osteoporosis is not just an old person's disease; however, it is no secret that primarily women in their retirement years are most often diagnosed. Men can get this bone thinning disease as well. As you get older, your bones do tend to weaken and thin although osteoporosis is not the normal progression. The problem is that many people do not take precautions before this disease develops.

It is important to note that the reason many women develop osteoporosis is because menopause robs them of the estrogen that helps protect the bones from becoming brittle. That is not the sole cause though. These are some additional factors that weigh in when diagnosing osteoporosis:

1. A lifetime of low calcium intake contributes to weak bones as does a vitamin D definciency.
2.  White and Asian races are the primary ones that dominate the world of osteoporosis.
3.  Bad vices like alcohol addiction and smoking contribute to this disease.
4.  A genetic history of osteoporosis makes a person more likely to develop it too.
5.  Chronic illnesses, diseases and even medications can cause osteoporosis.

Retirees take note: osteoporosis does not normally present any symptoms. Most people don't know they have it until they break a bone. Cartilage wears down and bones weaken to the point where even a vertebra might collapse. Perhaps the one indication is a gradual loss of height which most people would not recognize.

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Preventing and Treating Osteoporosis

Even before you head to the golden years of retirement, you should be taking precautions. However, if you haven't really thought about it and a recent bone density test shows that you are in the beginning stages of this disease, there is plenty that you can do to halt its progression in its tracks. Regular doctor check-ups and screenings are important as are a healthy diet and some type of physical activity every day. These things will also protect you in other areas of your life as well.

* Exercise - Thirty minutes per day is optimal. Weight and strength training are great for preventing osteoporosis as well as exercises that promote better balance. Yoga, walking, Pilates and even dancing are healthy for you.
* A diet rich in vitamin D and calcium are important. Milk, dark leafy veggies, yogurt, soy products, certain fish like salmon and low fat dairy are all great sources. Of course, supplements may also be needed to get the correct daily allotment.

* Yearly screenings for bone density are important, especially after age 50. And if you started menopause early, the screenings should start even sooner.
* Make your home more secure and remove potential hazards that could cause you to fall. Add handrails, secure carpeting, add skid proof mats to the shower and tub and tucking away cords all help. Having good lighting in your home can also help you see obstacles in your path.

The bottom line is that a life of clean living is the best preventative measure there is against suffering from osteoporosis in retirement. However, with proper doctor's care and preventative measures, you can halt this disease in its tracks.

Living a Healthy Retirement

11/20/2008
Alleged thefts at Sunwest-run retirement home under investigation (The Oregonian)
State regulators and Springfield police are investigating a series of suspected thefts of prescription drugs, jewelry and money from elderly residents of a Lane County retirement home operated by embattled Sunwest Management. Residents of the Briarwood Retirement and Assisted Living...

Alleged thefts at Sunwest-run retirement home under investigation (The Oregonian)

11/20/2008
Stock Market Swings Fuel Rethinking of Retirement Plans (The Online NewsHour)
U.S. stocks plunged again Thursday to five-year lows, fueling new concerns of retirement savings and 401(k) plans. Economic analysts mull the risks of stock market investment and challenges to saving for retirement.

Stock Market Swings Fuel Rethinking of Retirement Plans (The Online NewsHour)

11/20/2008
Mussina announces his retirement (Major League Baseball)
Mussina announces his retirement

Mussina announces his retirement (Major League Baseball)

11/20/2008
Retirement dreams yield to despair (MSNBC)
A rising number of people have seen their retirement plans evaporate. As 401(k)s dwindle, their dreams of golden years are being replaced by feelings of hopelessness and  anger.

Retirement dreams yield to despair (MSNBC)

11/20/2008
Stock Market Swings Fuel Rethinking of Retirement Plans (The Online NewsHour)
U.S. stocks plunged again Thursday to five-year lows, fueling new concerns of retirement savings and 401(k) plans. Economic analysts mull the risks of stock market investment and challenges to saving for retirement.

Stock Market Swings Fuel Rethinking of Retirement Plans (The Online NewsHour)

11/20/2008
Mussina announces his retirement (Major League Baseball)
Mussina announces his retirement

Mussina announces his retirement (Major League Baseball)

11/20/2008
What Happens if Your Employer Goes Broke (Washington Post)
What will happen to my health insurance and retirement plans if my employer files for bankruptcy?

What Happens if Your Employer Goes Broke (Washington Post)

11/20/2008
Retirement dreams give way to despair, anger (KOAA)
It was so close. And then, it wasn’t. Fifty-year-old Eddie Whitlock thought he was closing in on his hard-earned golden years. According to his master plan, in just five short years he’d retire from his job as executive director for Mental Health America of Northeast Georgia.

Retirement dreams give way to despair, anger (KOAA)