Top five tips to avoid fracture in seniors

A new guideline to prevent was published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal. The guideline aims to help frail seniors avoid hip and spine fractures.

The 2015 guideline, based on current evidence, builds on the 2010 Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Osteoporosis in Canada. The guideline gives the following tips.

1.Maintain adequate calcium and vitamin D intake

To prevent fractures, consider taking calcium and vitamin D supplements. Osteoporosis Canada recommends 1200 mg calcium intake through diet; if this requirement is not met through food, consider 500 mg of a calcium supplement per day. Vitamin D intake should be between 800 and 2000 international units (IU) a day in older adults.

2.Take osteoporosis medications as prescribed
For some people at high risk of fracture, osteoporosis medications may be prescribed.

3. Wear hip protectors if indicated

Hip protectors are a specialized form of clothing that contain pads around the hip and leg area. They are designed to prevent hip fractures following a fall.

4. Exercise regularly

Regular strength and balance exercises can greatly reduce your risk of a debilitating fall. For example, weight-bearing exercise, resistance training and Tai Chi are all effective ways to maintain strength and keep you more balanced. It is important to talk to your health care provider to identify safe ways to exercise.

5. Individually tailored interventions may reduce falls

Ensure that your living environment is as safe as possible to prevent falls. For example, anti-slip shoes and walk bars can make a big difference in keeping you safe.

This new Canadian guideline is consistent with recommendations to prevent fractures in Australian residential aged care facilities and from the American Medical Directors Association, although osteoporosis medications differ between countries.

“The goals of fracture prevention are to prevent pain, loss of mobility, serious injury and transfers to acute care and ultimately to maximize opportunities for quality living among long-term care residents,” conclude the guideline authors.

Category: Top Story, Wellness and Complementary Therapies