Live In Care for Individuals with Osteoporosis: Preventing Fractures and Promoting Bone Health

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a common type of bone disease. Derived from the Greek for “porous bone”, common symptoms include back pain and a stooped posture. This disease causes bones to become more fragile, increasing the risk of fractures or even broken bones. 

Osteoporosis develops slowly over several years, and it commonly occurs in the elderly since the amount of bone tissue we have reduces with age. However, being female, having illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis, hormonal changes and taking medications, such as steroids, are also risk factors for osteoporosis.

Types of Osteoporosis

More than 3 million people in the UK are living with osteoporosis, and the three main forms are:

Primary osteoporosis: the most prevalent form is often associated with the natural ageing process and usually occurs post-menopause in females. As we age, the balance of bone renewal changes, with more bone tissue loss than is being produced by our bodies, leading to a net loss of bone density.

Secondary osteoporosis: unlike the primary type, secondary osteoporosis arises due to certain medical conditions or treatments, such as chronic liver disease, hyperthyroidism, or chemotherapy.

Idiopathic juvenile osteoporosis: a rare form that affects children and young adults. The exact cause remains unknown, but most affected individuals recover fully over time.

Problems Caused by Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis significantly escalates the risk of fractures. Vulnerable areas include the hip, spine, and wrist, but fractures can occur in any bone. Post-fracture, individuals often grapple with persistent pain, decreased mobility, and sometimes, lifelong complications.

Beyond the physical repercussions, osteoporosis can also lead to poorer mental well-being. The persisting threat of getting a fracture can impact physical activities and confidence, leading to isolation, reduced mobility and greater risks for depression and anxiety.

Challenges Faced With a Lack of Specialist Care

Without specialised care, people with osteoporosis face an increased risk of falls and fractures. This risk is heightened when individuals unknowingly participate in activities that might jeopardise their bone health or neglect precautions advised by medical professionals. 

Regular medication and treatments are essential to managing osteoporosis. Unfortunately, these can be easily forgotten or mismanaged in the absence of specialised care, particularly in the elderly when there may be comorbid symptoms of memory loss and confusion. Moreover, isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness, neglect, and fear, further exacerbating mental health challenges.

 

How Live In Care Provides a Solution to Those Challenges

Live-in care offers a comprehensive solution. With 24/7 supervision, the risk of accidental falls or engagement in high-risk activities is substantially reduced. If a mishap does occur, immediate assistance is available.

Live-in caregivers also play a pivotal role in ensuring osteoporosis patients adhere to their prescribed treatments, medications, and exercises. Their presence acts as a continuous reminder and source of support.

 Perhaps one of the most underrated benefits of live-in caregivers is the companionship they provide. Beyond the clinical aspects of care, these caregivers offer emotional reassurance, combatting feelings of loneliness and ensuring a significantly enhanced quality of life.

Conclusion

Specialised care for osteoporosis patients is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. With the challenges they face, from physical limitations to mental health struggles, the benefits of live-in care cannot be overstated. Such care promotes bone health, mitigates the risk of fractures, and dramatically improves the overall well-being and quality of life for those living with osteoporosis.

 

Choose The Live In Care Company

Choosing a live-in care provider for your loved one is a significant and sometimes challenging decision. By thoroughly identifying your loved one’s requirements, finding a trustworthy agency, conducting comprehensive interviews, and deciding as a family, you can ensure that you choose a caregiver who will provide high-quality, compassionate care. Learn more about how The Live In Care Company can provide the proper support and resources for all your loved one’s needs.