Osteoporosis is thought to affect over 3 million people in the UK, with women being more likely to be diagnosed with it than men. Although the risk of osteoporosis increases with age, children can also be diagnosed with it.
The effects of osteoporosis can affect almost every aspect of a person's day-to-day life and routine. Depending on the severity of the condition, it can make life difficult for the individual and their loved ones.
Read our family guide to osteoporosis to help you understand this condition, recognise the signs, and learn how to help someone with osteoporosis.
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a chronic condition in which bones lose density and strength. The body loses more bone mass than it can replace, leaving the bones brittle, weakened, and more prone to fractures and injuries. The most commonly affected areas include the hips, wrists, and spine, which can lead to loss of mobility and a decreased quality of life.
Living with osteoporosis can be very challenging for individuals as their bones could fracture or break from something as minor as sneezing, coughing, or even hugging a loved one.
How to recognise signs of osteoporosis
Osteoporosis can progress silently, often not causing any pain or discomfort until a bone fractures or breaks. However, there are some warning signs to help identify it early. If someone in your life may be affected, look out for these common symptoms:
- Frequent fractures
- Loss of height due to compression fractures in the spine
- Hunched posture
- Chronic joint pain
If your loved one is regularly experiencing any of these symptoms, please encourage them to consult a healthcare professional.
What to do if someone you know has osteoporosis?
If someone you know may have osteoporosis, suggest they see a doctor or take them there. They may be referred for a bone density (DEXA) scan and given management advice. Unfortunately, there is no way to reverse the effects of osteoporosis, but medication and treatment can strengthen bones and reduce density loss to prevent further fractures.
Doctors may prescribe medication or calcium and vitamin D supplements. They may also recommend lifestyle changes such as weight-bearing exercises for strength and balance.
How to help someone with osteoporosis
There are many ways you can help someone with osteoporosis, such as helping them prevent the risk of falls, managing discomfort, and offering moral support.
At Complete Care Shop, we offer a wide range of assisted living aids that can help those with reduced mobility complete daily tasks safely and independently.
Recommended products
- Bathroom aids
Wet and slippery surfaces, like in bathrooms, can be dangerous to those with osteoporosis. Grab rails, bath seats, and non-slip mats can help reduce the risk of falls. We also have washing and hygiene aids like long-handled sponges so they can independently keep clean without overexertion.
- Reachers and grabbers
Bending over or stretching to reach high items can strain fragile bones. Long-handled grabbers and reachers can make everyday tasks more accessible.
- Mobility aids
Chronic pain and fragile bones can make getting around more challenging. Consider walking aids or wheelchairs and mobility scooters for added stability and safety.
- Fall prevention and management aids
Osteoporosis can make individuals more prone to falls, and minor injuries can easily become serious fractures and breaks. Hip shields and floor mats could help to reduce the impact of bumps and falls.
- Pain relief and management
Chronic joint pain can be very difficult to live with; pain management equipment like TENs machines or hot and cold therapy can help to make life a little easier.
Useful charities and resources
If you or your loved one require additional support or information, some charities in the UK are dedicated to osteoporosis, which can help.
Royal Osteoporosis Society is the only UK charity dedicated to improving osteoporosis prevention, diagnosis and treatment. On their website, you can find more information about the condition and advice on living with it. The Royal Osteoporosis Society also has online and in-person support groups so you can connect with people in a similar situation.
Build Better Bones is another great resource for both caregivers and those living with osteoporosis. They offer lifestyle advice for living with this condition such as exercise routines, nutrition guidance and even ways to make your home safer. They have a wealth of information for loved ones on how to help and care for someone with osteoporosis.
You can also consult the NHS website for more information on osteoporosis, including its causes and treatment options.
Caring for someone with osteoporosis
Living with osteoporosis can heavily affect your loved one’s quality of life as they deal with chronic pain and reduced mobility, and you may find yourself becoming their carer. If you’re nervous about being a carer and how to help someone with osteoporosis, read our guide on how to become a carer for a family member. Don’t worry; it isn’t as scary as it may seem.
You can also check out our help and advice blog for more product advice.
How can Complete Care Shop help?
Complete Care Shop is dedicated to making daily living safer and more comfortable for those living with various conditions, including osteoporosis. Our extensive range of living aids can support your loved one’s independence and safety.
If you’re unsure of which products best fit your loved one’s needs, book a virtual home living consultation with one of our expert Occupational Therapists. They can assess your loved one’s living environment, recommend tailored solutions, and guide you toward suitable products. You can also get in touch with our OTs for expert product advice or contact us.
