National Osteoporosis Month:

Osteoporosis is the weakening of bones, which can lead to painful spine fractures, broken ribs, wrists or hips. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, half of all women over the age of 50 will break a bone, and the risk is even higher for women who are diagnosed with osteoporosis. A broken bone can be a serious health problem, especially in older age. That's why protecting your bones now and keeping osteoporosis at bay is crucial. The four cornerstones of preventing bone loss and keeping bones strong are:

1.      Weight-bearing exercise

2.      Core strength for good balance (keep working those abs)

3.      The right amount of Calcium

4.      The right amount of Vitamin D

Continue reading to learn clinical recommendations for improving bone health...

How to make your home safe if you have osteopenia or osteoporosis.:

Did you know that at least one-third of all falls among older adults involve hazards in the home? By practicing home safety you can avoid falls that can lead to serious, even life threatening injury.

 Here are some tips to help you avoid falls now, and feel safe at home.

In the Bathroom  

1. Install grab bars. "Grab bars now come in all kinds of colors and materials, so you can tailor them to fit into your decor and look residential,” says Jon Pynoos, PhD, co-director of the Fall Prevention Center at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.

2. Sit to shower. If you are unsteady on your feet, consider purchasing a padded bath or shower seat with a back and nonskid leg tips so you don't have to stand to shower.

3. Make your shower less slippery. Put a nonskid mat or appliques on the shower or bath floor to counter slipperiness.

4. Raise your toilet seat. If it is difficult to get up from the toilet, install a raised seat. Grab bars next to the toilet are also a good idea.

 Throughout the House 

1. Reduce clutter. Papers, books, clothes, shoes, newspapers, boxes, plants, and other items can be fall hazards. Clear them out of the way so you have plenty of room to move around on stairs, in hallways, and in rooms.