Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and it’s especially vital for senior citizens. As individuals age, they face unique challenges that can impact their mental health, including loneliness, physical health issues, and life transitions. Addressing senior mental health in primary care is an often overlooked aspect of healthcare, but it’s of paramount importance for the elderly population’s quality of life.

The Correlation Between Mental Health and Primary Care

Primary care providers play a vital role in senior mental health, as they can identify these issues during regular check-ups, provide emotional support, and prescribe medications when needed. They also manage the connection between seniors’ physical and mental health, which is often intertwined. If specialized help is required, they can refer seniors to specialized mental health experts and other services. By acknowledging the connection between physical and mental health, senior primary care helps older adults lead better lives as they age.

Causes of Mental Health Issues in Seniors

The causes of mental health issues in seniors are multifaceted and often interconnected. These challenges can be triggered or exacerbated by factors such as significant life transitions, including retirement and the loss of loved ones [1]. Loneliness and social isolation, which may result from the death of friends or family members, can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety. Additionally, physical health issues, such as chronic pain and illnesses, can contribute to mental health problems, as they can limit seniors’ independence and lead to frustration and stress.

Common Senior Citizen Mental Health Issues

Mental health concerns in senior citizens are more prevalent and impactful than many realize. The aging process brings with it a unique set of challenges, such as depression and anxiety, that can significantly affect the mental well-being of older individuals.

Depression

Depression is one of the most prevalent mental health issues among senior citizens [2]. The loss of loved ones, reduced social interaction, and physical health decline can all contribute to the development of depression. Recognizing the signs of depression in seniors, such as persistent sadness, changes in sleep, and loss of interest in activities, is crucial for early intervention.

Anxiety

Seniors may experience anxiety due to various factors like worries about their health, financial stability, or the fear of being alone [3]. Anxiety can manifest as restlessness, excessive worrying, and physical symptoms such as a racing heart and trembling.

Dementia

Dementia is a progressive condition that severely affects cognitive functions, leading to memory loss, confusion, and disorientation. While dementia is not a mental illness in the traditional sense, it has a significant impact on a senior’s mental health. Caring for seniors with dementia can be mentally and emotionally taxing.

Signs of Mental Illness in Seniors

Recognizing signs of mental illness in seniors can be challenging, as some of the symptoms may overlap with the normal aging process. However, there are specific indicators to watch out for [4]:

• Social Withdrawal: Seniors who begin to isolate themselves from friends and family may be struggling with their mental health.
• Changes in Sleep Patterns: Insomnia or oversleeping can be indicative of mental health issues.
• Irritability: Unexplained irritability, mood swings, or increased frustration may point to underlying mental health concerns.
• Cognitive Decline: Noticeable changes in memory, concentration, or decision-making ability can be signs of dementia or other cognitive issues.
• Physical Symptoms: Frequent headaches, unexplained aches and pains, or changes in appetite may be related to mental health struggles.

Treatment Options for Senior Mental Health

Addressing mental health issues in seniors involves a combination of approaches, depending on the individual’s specific needs.

• Therapy: Psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy, can be highly effective in addressing depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues in seniors.
• Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage symptoms of mental illness. However, it’s important to consider potential side effects and interactions with other medications.
• Support Groups: Seniors can benefit from participating in support groups where they can connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and receive emotional support.
• Lifestyle Interventions: Encouraging seniors to engage in physical activity, maintain a balanced diet, and engage in social activities can positively impact their mental health.

Behavioral Health Care for Seniors at Greater Good

At Greater Good, we’re dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive behavioral services in senior healthcare. We understand the unique challenges that seniors face, and our team of experienced professionals is committed to enhancing their mental and emotional well-being. Contact us today to get started with senior behavioral health treatment or find a primary care clinic location near you.

To put it simply, Medicare can be confusing. You may feel unfamiliar with the world of insurance, or may not feel like dealing with its complexities in the later stages of your life. Although these feelings are valid, Medicare is a tool that can greatly increase the quality of your health and protection during your senior years. 

Ultimately, having a senior primary care doctor who accepts Medicare as insurance is a principle because this doctor serves as your main healthcare provider, managing your overall well-being and coordinating specific care with specialists, without the extra costs. Doctors can help prevent illnesses—focusing especially on age-related chronic conditions—and reassure you that you are receiving all the screenings and vaccinations you need. They are also experts in the healthcare field allowing them to teach you how to navigate this world and make informed and appropriate decisions about your health. 

Finding a senior healthcare doctor who accepts Medicare may seem daunting at first, but by visiting the Medicare website or calling Medicare’s phone number (1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)) to search for doctors who accept Medicare in your area, this process can be made simple. We’ll get more into the exact steps later on, but keep reading if you’d like to learn more about the importance of Medicare and which steps to take!

Understanding Medicare

There are four parts to Medicare [1], including: 

• Part A helps cover hospital care and certain types of nurse facilities, hospice, and home health care. 
• Part B, which helps cover doctor visits, outpatient care, preventative/screening services, and some home health care
• Part C, which is also called “Medicare Advantage” is an all-inclusive alternative to Parts A and B, offered by private insurance companies. Additionally, Part C often includes extra benefits such as vision, dental, and some drug coverage. 
• Part D is also offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare and helps with prescription drug costs. 

[H2] The Benefits of Primary Care Doctors Who Take Medicare

There are a handful of benefits to having a primary care doctor who works in the Medicare network. For one, you will receive continuity of care, meaning that your doctor will get to know you on a personal level [2]. This includes your medical history, areas of concern, and health goals, which can lead to a better and more whole-person approach to treatment. Having a primary care doctor who takes Medicare for seniors can also save you the big bucks since they’ll work on coordinating your healthcare needs and ensuring you don’t accidentally overlap or duplicate services [3]. Primary care doctors also focus on preventative care and helping you avoid serious health issues that could come into play in the future. 

[H2] How to Find a Primary Care Physician with Medicare

Check out the following steps on how to find a doctor who takes Medicare and fits your needs: 

[H3] Research Medicare Primary Care Providers

We aren’t all tech-savvy, but thankfully, the Medicare website creates a simple user interface to make researching providers easy. Simply visit the “Find Healthcare Providers” page, type in your zip code and the distance you are willing to travel to your doctor, and research through the directory provided to you. Be sure to read reviews and testimonials to ensure that the doctors you are considering fit your needs and preferences, such as specialty, years of experience, gender, etc. 

[H3] Contact Local Healthcare Networks

If you are familiar with a specific local healthcare network, like a hospital or medical center that you are particularly fond of, don’t be afraid to reach out! Most have an online portal similar to Medicare in which you can input Medicare insurance into the filters, and receive a list of doctors affiliated with this network who take the insurance. 

[H3] Checking with Insurance Providers

Don’t hesitate to reach out to insurance providers to confirm that they consider the doctor you found “in-network.” Understand the coverage network to avoid unexpected costs. It’s always a good idea to double-check—better safe than sorry!

[H3] Consider Accessibility and Convenience

Brainstorm variables that are important to you in a primary care doctor. Nothing is off the table. For example, something you’d likely want to make sure of is that your doctor is close enough to your home or place of work. Nobody wishes to travel hours for a doctor’s appointment. Additionally, consider the availability of transportation to this location, and the parking situation. Assess whether public transport or your vehicle makes more sense for this particular office. 

[H3] Schedule Consultations

Finally, once all else is confirmed, it is time to set up introductory appointments! Introductory appointments can be conducted with multiple primary care physicians if you are concerned about finding one you mesh well with. Consider asking questions about the physician’s approach to Medicare patients in your appointment to make sure you are on the same page. 

[H3] Confirm Medicare Acceptance

While in your appointment, directly confirm that your doctor takes Medicare. It will be comforting to know for sure from them. 

[H2] When Do I Need a Primary Care Doctor with Medicare?

Everyone needs a primary care doctor, no matter what age. However, they are especially vital for seniors. There is an ongoing need for seniors to get help managing existing senior conditions and preventing new ones from arising to take care of the overall health of the patient. Choose a senior health provider who also works as the center of coordination for specialized care, so that you can be ensured you have the resources to receive care in the way you deserve. 

[H2] Medicare Primary Care at Greater Good Health

Did you know that Greater Good Health provides primary care through Medicare? We make the process seamless and simple for seniors to navigate. Contact us now to get to know more about the process!

Do you have countless pill bottles unorganized in your bathroom cabinet? Are you constantly forgetting to take your medications on the correct days, and at the correct times? Are you taking so many different types of medicine that you are unsure of what ailment each is even for? If you answered yes to any of these questions, this blog post on tips for medication management may help!

Medication management is endlessly important, especially for seniors who often have an increased number of medications they are simultaneously taking. We all have busy lives, whether you are working or retired, and unfortunately, it is easy for medication management to get disorganized. However, the management of your medications should be paid attention to, as your health and safety are top priorities.

By properly managing your medications with the help of your senior primary care provider, you can erase feelings of confusion and doubt surrounding your prescribed supplements. Keep reading to learn how!

The Importance of Medication Management for Seniors

Before we jump right into medication management tips, let’s first touch on why medication management is important for seniors, in particular. You may wonder, if I have a set way of organizing and keeping track of your medications, why change it? Well, the problem is that a very large number of people do not manage their medications appropriately, which puts their health in danger. According to a study conducted by Express Scripts, out of 600,000 patients taking medications, 39% didn’t take their medications regularly due to forgetfulness, 20% did not renew their prescriptions on time, and 10% missed multiple doses due to a lack of refills [1]. Not adhering to the specific guidelines and schedule for your medications can lead to an increased risk of side effects, withdrawals, and even premature death [2]. 

To avoid potential complications and risks, there are a few simple tips you can employ in your routine that will help you manage your medications more effectively. These best practices aren’t made to be tedious but instead enforced to positively impact your health and quality of life. The last thing you want to do is worsen a condition you are already taking medication for, so partaking in these management tips is in your best interest. Ultimately, it will help enhance your independence and ability to function. 

Medication Management Tips for Seniors

Without further ado, here are our top tips for managing your medication as a senior.

Create a Medication Schedule

To reduce the risk of forgetting to take your medication or refill a prescription, create a medication schedule. This can be a physical calendar/agenda, a virtual set of reminders on your phone, or both. Use whatever tactic you find is most effective for getting you to take your medications on time. Once you take your medication, make sure to mark the task as completed on your schedule to avoid forgetting and taking an extra dose accidentally. 

Keep an Updated Medication List

As a senior, you are likely taking more than one medication at a time. Some may be taking more than five. Remembering all the medication names and correct doses, as well as changes/updates to doses made by your doctor, can become difficult. To combat this, keep a physical or virtual list of all the medications you take. This includes even over-the-counter medications, like ibuprofen or seasonal allergy medication, and vitamins. It is important to include these supplements as well because certain medications your doctor prescribes may interact with over-the-counter medications. 

By keeping a list of medications, you can ensure that you accurately remember all the medications you are currently taking, the date you began taking them and their correct prescription. You can also write notes about side effects or specific protocols on the list. Additionally, you should keep this list handy when you visit your doctor or specialist, who may ask about your medication history. A list makes things more organized and accessible for everyone. 

Organize Medications for Convenience

If you have a medicine cabinet filled to the brim with full bottles, empty bottles, and old supplements, this tip is for you. Take some time to sort through your medications and organize them for easy access. Use a pill organizer to sort out which medications to take on which days, and section off your medications when storing them. This will make it so much easier to notice when you are running low on medication or find a specific medication when needed. 

Be Mindful of Potential Side Effects

Almost all medications have potential side effects, no matter how “low-stakes” the medication is. Recognize and ask about the common side effects of each medication you take, and make a note of them so you can consider whether you are experiencing them. Ask your doctor which side effects require immediate attention. For example, many medications may cause a headache, which in most cases, is not a serious side effect and doesn’t require an immediate trip to the doctor. However, experiencing more serious side effects, like fainting or vomiting, may require immediate attention. The only way you’ll know which side effects to look out for is by researching and speaking to a medical professional [3]. 

Consult with a Healthcare Provider Regularly

As previously mentioned, speaking to your senior healthcare provider and asking questions about your medications is important to manage them effectively. Address your concerns about side effects and adjustments to medication plans honestly so that you and your provider can work together to find a treatment plan that works well for you. 

How Does Primary Care Incorporate Medication Management?

Senior-focused primary care physicians play an important role in medication management. They are knowledgeable professionals who know exactly which medications to prescribe to each individual, taking their genetics, other disorders, and lifestyles into account. Primary care physicians will oversee medication plans and adherence to scheduling as well as collaborate with other healthcare professionals for comprehensive care. They believe that medication management is an important part of their job, and look to make strides in improving it every day to further benefit their patients [4].

Medication Management for Seniors at Greater Good

Greater Good Health believes in holistic health, which can be described as wellness in all areas of your life. We encourage readers to contact us for more information! 

It’s expected to encounter some light joint pain and back aches as we get older, but when do these nagging pains turn into something more serious? The truth is, as we get older, it becomes increasingly important to talk about chronic health conditions, as these conditions become more and more common among older adults. But, before we talk about them, we should know about them! This blog post will take a close look at some of the most common chronic health conditions that tend to rise as we get older and highlight the practical steps you can take to manage and prevent them, with the help of your primary care provider. 

Diseases and Chronic Conditions Associated with Aging

Our bodies go through a handful of changes as we age. Think about your teenage years and how many changes your body went through during this time—although the changes you experience in older age may not be as visible, dramatic, or positive, the body never truly stops changing. Your body is constantly evolving, whether for the better or worse. Unfortunately, as we get older, our bodies and their ability to function tend to start deteriorating. 

Over time, our cells slowly lose their ability to renew as quickly and efficiently as they once did when we were younger [1]. This leads to our bodily functions being performed at a slower rate and with more difficulty, which can cause physical pain and mental distress. For example, this decline can lead to decreased muscle mass and bone density, reduced cognitive function, and/or slower metabolism. 

In addition, our immune systems may become compromised as we age, making it easier to develop infections and illnesses and harder to fight them off if contracted [2]. This means that you may get sick more often, and for longer amounts of time, even though you are following the same steps you once did to get better. 

Chronic health conditions, which are as long-lasting and often incurable illnesses, tend to be more prevalent in older adults due to the variables previously mentioned. According to the National Council on Aging, approximately 90% of adults aged 60 and older have at least one chronic condition [3]. What your body once may have been able to fight off with ease as a young adult, it may now have trouble recovering from. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental variables may exacerbate the development of these conditions and how likely one is to recover from them. 

This can be stressful and frustrating for older adults who are already concerned about their health and well-being. It can all feel uncontrollable, and these conditions can really put a damper on one’s outlook on life. Although these conditions certainly are scary to think about, we must think about them to understand how to prevent and manage them. Therefore, understanding what chronic conditions you are susceptible to can help empower us to make healthy decisions in managing and mitigating the onset of these illnesses. Let’s start the conversation now!

Cardiovascular Diseases[4]

Common cardiovascular conditions in older adults encompass a variety of disorders, including hypertension, coronary artery disease (CAD), and heart failure. 

Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it usually does not present noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Many people with hypertension don’t realize they have it until it is detected in a routine check-up, or unfortunately, when they experience a heart attack or stroke. Hypertension is characterized by persistently high blood pressure levels, which can put a strain on the heart and blood vessels over time. 

Coronary artery disease forms due to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which blocks blood flow to the heart. CAD increases the risk of heart attacks and angina and can manifest in several ways. Symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, and dizziness. However, some people who develop CAD experience little to no symptoms, particularly in the early stages. 

Finally, heart failure occurs when the heart’s ability to pump blood to the rest of the body is significantly reduced. This can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention. 

A handful of risk factors contribute to these conditions, including but not limited to old age, genetic predisposition, smoking, obesity, lack of exercise, and underlying medical conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol. Early detection of these diseases is key to managing them accordingly or preventing them altogether. 

Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Conditions[5]

Let’s talk about arthritis, which is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide and comes in many forms. First, osteoarthritis, which is the most prevalent type, typically sneaks up on us as we age and occurs when the cartilage protecting our joints starts to wear down. Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and tenderness, especially after periods of inactivity or overuse. Swelling around the joints is also common for many people with osteoarthritis. 

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when your body’s immune system wrongly attacks the joints. This can lead to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Both of these types of arthritis can lead to a general inability to move with ease and complete daily activities. Even the most seemingly simple tasks, like opening a pickle jar, mowing the lawn, or walking up the stairs, can be difficult or even painful for someone with arthritis. But, with the right interventions, like lifestyle adjustments, medications, and/or physical therapy, arthritis can be kept under control. 

Diabetes[6]

Another common chronic condition among older adults is diabetes. There are two types of diabetes. Type 1 is most commonly diagnosed in children and younger adults and occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, resulting in the need for insulin therapy to manage their blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes is more common in adults and older adults, and develops when your body becomes resistant to insulin or fails to produce enough insulin to have healthy blood sugar levels. Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and increased hunger. 

Obesity, lack of exercise, and poor diet are all factors that influence the development of type 2 diabetes. However, genetics can also play a large role. As people age, the likelihood of developing both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes rises, with Type 2 diabetes being more common in older adults due to changes in metabolism and age-related health conditions. With proper habits like exercise and healthy dieting, as well as management through medication and monitoring, diabetes can be handled. 

Respiratory Conditions[7]

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, as well as other respiratory issues, can negatively impact your lungs and airways, making breathing difficult. People with COPD and/or other respiratory disorders may experience shortness of breath, wheezing, chronic coughing, and the excessive production of mucus. They may experience these symptoms only when exercising at first, and then notice that they start to creep up throughout their day, even when sedentary. Although variables like air pollution, occupational hazards, genetic predisposition, and respiratory infections can lead to COPD, smoking cigarettes is the leading cause. With proper diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle changes, COPD and its symptoms can be improved so that older adults can maintain lung function. 

Neurological Conditions[8]

Conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease are neurodegenerative disorders that are common in older adults and have significant impacts on one’s ability to perform cognitive and motor functions, like remembering how to fry an egg or being able to wash the dishes. Alzheimer’s disease primarily impacts memory, thinking, and behaviors, which can lead to cognitive decline, confusion, and difficulty completing tasks that require critical thinking or memory. 

In contrast, Parkinson’s disease affects motor function and causes symptoms like tremors, rigidity, slowed movement, and postural instability. Both disorders can make it difficult to complete tasks and enjoy everyday life, which highlights the need for early detection and intervention for these diseases, as well as ongoing support from doctors and loved ones. 

Can Chronic Conditions Be Prevented?

Although some chronic conditions have genetic or unavoidable factors, many can be prevented or made less likely to occur by making healthy lifestyle choices[9]. For example, one should consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, as well as avoid processed foods high in sugars, to minimize the risk of developing a chronic condition. It may be hard to cut out unhealthy desserts and drink more green smoothies, but your body will thank you later!

Staying physically active and regularly exercising is also important for reducing this risk, and can be performed through aerobics, strength training, and flexibility exercises. These exercises don’t need to be strenuous, either. Simply going on a 15-minute walk every day, starting a yoga class, or doing tai chi in the park count as appropriate exercise. 

Reducing stress and prioritizing your mental health can also help minimize the risk of chronic conditions, which can be positively influenced by spending time socializing with others, learning new skills and hobbies, and using healthy coping skills to manage stress [10]. 

Last but not least, make regular check-ups in senior primary care and screening appointments with your doctor to prioritize early detection and intervention of possible conditions. Remember, they are the experts and are here to help!

Benefits of Chronic Condition Management for Older Adults

Chronic condition management encompasses gaining control and minimizing the impact of long-term health issues and how they affect your day-to-day life. This typically includes strategies like medication management, lifestyle changes, regular check-ins for symptoms and signs, and ongoing education and support. Older patients should partake in management, as it has a huge role in maintaining quality of life and preventing complications. Not to mention, it also influences independence and allows older adults to feel empowered in managing their conditions. 

Chronic Condition Management and Preventive Care at Greater Good

Look no further! Here at Greater Good Health, we provide preventative care and chronic pain management to help older adults live a fulfilling and independent lifestyle without letting their condition take control. Contact us today to learn more about senior healthcare, and schedule an appointment!

Our bones are the foundation that supports our bodies each day, allowing us to move, stand, and perform various activities. However, bone-related issues have become increasingly prevalent, especially among older adults. Osteoporosis alone affects over 44 million Americans, and half of those are over 50 years old [1]. Although this is a concerning issue, the good news is that there are practical and proven strategies that one can adopt on how to keep bones healthy as you age.

Different Types of Bone Disorders

Bone disorders can significantly impact a person’s health and quality of life. Some bone disorders include: 

• Osteoporosis[2] is characterized by low bone density and an increased risk of fractures. When one has osteoporosis, bones become weak and brittle, which leads to fractures in the spine, hips, and wrists. Osteoporosis is more common in older adults, particularly women after menopause due to hormonal changes. 

• Osteoarthritis[3] is not just a bone disorder but instead affects the joints and the bones that form the joint, particularly in the hands, hips, and knees. Arthritis involves the breakdown of cartilage which cushions the ends of the bones, which leads to pain, stiffness and reduced joint flexibility. 

• Rheumatoid Arthritis[4] is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder that mostly affects multiple joints but can also impact the bones when the immune system attacks the synovium, a lining that surrounds the joints. Because of this, inflammation and damage can occur in the bone and cartilage, which can lead to joint pain and deformities. 

• Paget’s Disease of Bone[5] is a disorder that leads to abnormal bone remodeling, which results in weakened and misshaped bones. It can affect one or more bones and is often localized in the spine, pelvis, and skull, and is more common in older adults. 

• Fractures are not a disorder, but a common bone injury often stemming from a disorder. They can result from trauma, falls, accidents, or bone conditions. Fractures vary in intensity and may require immobilization or surgical intervention if severe. 
• Bone Cancer[6] has 2 counterparts. Primary bone cancer originates in the bone tissue itself and includes Osteosarcoma and Ewing’s sarcoma. Secondary bone cancer originates when cancer from another part of the body spreads to the bones. 

How to Keep Your Bones Healthy as You Age

As we gracefully journey through life, the care of our bones becomes increasingly crucial. Understanding how to maintain and fortify bone health is a vital component of aging well.

Nutrient-Rich Diet for Strong Bones[7]

Diet plays a large role in keeping your bones healthy. You have likely heard of a few staple vitamins that are great to take daily for bone health, but do you know just why they are so important? Calcium and Vitamin D directly contribute to keeping your bones healthy and strong. Calcium is the building block of bones and helps them maintain their strength, while Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium effectively. Consider incorporating foods rich in calcium, like yogurt, milk, and cheese into your diet, as well as leafy greens and almonds. Vitamin D can be obtained naturally from the sun’s rays. But, it is also important to include foods rich in Vitamin D into your diet, like fatty fish. Other nutrients, like protein and zinc, can also help you maintain good bone health. 

Regular Physical Activity and Weight-Bearing Exercises

Exercise is beneficial for many aspects of your health, including maintaining strong bones. Weight-bearing exercises stimulate bone growth by subjecting your bones to the force of gravity[8]. These exercises include walking, jogging, dancing, tennis, weightlifting, and more. These exercises increase bone density and make your bones less prone to fractures and osteoporosis. Exercises that incorporate balance and posture are also vital for reducing the risk of falls, which can lead to bone injuries. Some of these activities include yoga and tai chi. 

Maintain a Healthy Body Weight[9]

Your body weight can influence the amount of strain on your bones. Being underweight increases the risk of developing osteoporosis, as the bones may lack the necessary support they need. On the other hand, being overweight can place stress on your bones and joints, which can lead to discomfort and reduced bone strength. Maintaining a healthy body weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial for optimal bone health. 

Limit Harmful Habits

Smoking and drinking alcohol consumption not only have detrimental effects on one’s overall health but can also impact bone health [10]. Smoking has been linked to lower bone density, making bones more likely to get fractured. Additionally, heavy alcohol consumption interferes with the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. By reducing or quitting these habits altogether, you can enhance your bone health and improve your overall well-being. 

Ensure Hormonal Balance

Hormonal changes, especially during menopause, can significantly affect bone health [11]. Estrogen, which is a hormone that plays a role in maintaining bone density, decreases during menopause. This decrease can lead to bone loss and an increased chance of bone fractures and osteoporosis. Various lifestyle adjustments can contribute to hormonal balance, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques. 

Adequate Sleep for Bone Regeneration

Sleep is often underestimated in its role in bone health. During sleep, your body goes into repair mode, and bones are no exception. Sleep is essential for bone regeneration and growth. Quality sleep allows your bones to recover and adapt to the stress they’ve experienced during the day. To ensure you’re getting the restorative sleep you need, establish a consistent sleep schedule, create a comfortable sleep environment, and practice relaxation techniques before bed. 

Get Regular Check-Ups

It is normal for our bones to change as we age. Bone density decreases over time, making bones more fragile and prone to fractures. But, getting regular bone density tests, especially for individuals over 50 years old, can give valuable insights into your bone health from a professional. Healthcare professionals can offer personalized recommendations based on your medical history and lifestyle. In some cases, supplements may be recommended to ensure you are avoiding any nutritional imbalances that may be affecting your bone health. 

Bone Health and Preventive Care in Senior Primary Care

Your bones are the structural support that allows you to navigate through life. By utilizing these techniques in protecting and keeping your bones healthy as you age, you are investing in your long-term well-being and overall health. From nourishing your body with nutrient-rich foods to engaging in weight-bearing exercises and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, every step you take contributes to the strength and resilience of your bones. 

It’s never too early or too late understand how to keep bones healthy as you age. At Greater Good Health, we provide quality senior primary care services that include preventive care. Find a primary care clinic near you, and contact us today to schedule your appointment.