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Stay Strong, Stay Safe: How to Protect Your Bones and Prevent Falls


Dr. Melissa Holland, Chief Medical Officer at UnitedHealthcare shares expert advice on maintaining bone health and preventing falls. (7News){p}{/p}
Dr. Melissa Holland, Chief Medical Officer at UnitedHealthcare shares expert advice on maintaining bone health and preventing falls. (7News)

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As we age, a natural decline in bone density and mass increases the risk of bone-related conditions and injuries. Many older adults aim to maintain their independence for as long as possible, making the preservation of strong bones and fall prevention a top priority.

To shed light on this important topic, Dr. Melissa Holland, Chief Medical Officer at UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement, shared expert advice on maintaining bone health and preventing falls.

Dr. Holland emphasizes that bone density naturally decreases over time, which can lead to a higher susceptibility to injuries from falls. She points out that falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, often resulting in fractures of the wrist, arm, ankle, or hip, as well as head injuries. Each year falls lead to about 3 million emergency department visits among older adults. Beyond the physical injuries, the fear of falling again can cause many to reduce their daily activities, which may result in further physical weakness and impact overall health.

To maintain bone health, Dr. Holland recommends a healthy, active lifestyle that supports overall well-being and helps prevent fall injuries. A diet rich in Vitamin D and calcium plays a key role, alongside regular activities such as walking, jogging, or weight-bearing exercises to enhance balance, coordination, and strength. Regular annual health checkups are also vital to address any concerns early, and discussing injury prevention options with a healthcare provider can provide tailored guidance.

In addition to lifestyle choices, Dr. Holland advises making the home environment safer to reduce fall risks. Simple changes like rearranging furniture, installing grab bars and handrails, securing rugs, and eliminating tripping hazards such as long, dragging clothes can make a significant difference. She also suggests wearing rubber-soled shoes, sneakers, or slip-resistant socks or slippers to improve traction. While not all injuries can be prevented, building stronger bones, increasing strength, and improving balance can lessen the impact of falls and speed up recovery.

For more information and resources on bone health and fall prevention, Dr. Holland encourages visiting UHC.com.

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