Avoiding the Breaks of Retirement (and Osteoporosis)

It is important to note that the reason many women develop osteoporosis is because menopause robs them of the estrogen that helps protect the bones from becoming brittle. That is not the sole cause though.

Osteoporosis is not just an old person's disease; however, it is no secret that primarily women in their retirement years are most often diagnosed. Men can get this bone thinning disease as well. As you get older, your bones do tend to weaken and thin although osteoporosis is not the normal progression. The problem is that many people do not take precautions before this disease develops.

It is important to note that the reason many women develop osteoporosis is because menopause robs them of the estrogen that helps protect the bones from becoming brittle. That is not the sole cause though. These are some additional factors that weigh in when diagnosing osteoporosis:

1. A lifetime of low calcium intake contributes to weak bones as does a vitamin D definciency.
2.  White and Asian races are the primary ones that dominate the world of osteoporosis.
3.  Bad vices like alcohol addiction and smoking contribute to this disease.
4.  A genetic history of osteoporosis makes a person more likely to develop it too.
5.  Chronic illnesses, diseases and even medications can cause osteoporosis.

Retirees take note: osteoporosis does not normally present any symptoms. Most people don't know they have it until they break a bone. Cartilage wears down and bones weaken to the point where even a vertebra might collapse. Perhaps the one indication is a gradual loss of height which most people would not recognize.

Individual Retirement Accounts Learning new things like the internet or creating web pages could open a whole new avenue. 3. Volunteer. By giving your time to a worthy cause, you feel useful and your time is making a difference for someone less fortunate. There are plenty of ways to volunteer whether it is through a church, social organization or even through a school. Retirement Age

Preventing and Treating Osteoporosis

Even before you head to the golden years of retirement, you should be taking precautions. However, if you haven't really thought about it and a recent bone density test shows that you are in the beginning stages of this disease, there is plenty that you can do to halt its progression in its tracks. Regular doctor check-ups and screenings are important as are a healthy diet and some type of physical activity every day. These things will also protect you in other areas of your life as well.

* Exercise - Thirty minutes per day is optimal. Weight and strength training are great for preventing osteoporosis as well as exercises that promote better balance. Yoga, walking, Pilates and even dancing are healthy for you.
* A diet rich in vitamin D and calcium are important. Milk, dark leafy veggies, yogurt, soy products, certain fish like salmon and low fat dairy are all great sources. Of course, supplements may also be needed to get the correct daily allotment.

* Yearly screenings for bone density are important, especially after age 50. And if you started menopause early, the screenings should start even sooner.
* Make your home more secure and remove potential hazards that could cause you to fall. Add handrails, secure carpeting, add skid proof mats to the shower and tub and tucking away cords all help. Having good lighting in your home can also help you see obstacles in your path.

The bottom line is that a life of clean living is the best preventative measure there is against suffering from osteoporosis in retirement. However, with proper doctor's care and preventative measures, you can halt this disease in its tracks.

Living a Healthy Retirement

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11/19/2008
Dedham has plan to fund retirement benefits (The Daily News Transcript)
Special Town Meeting began to address Dedham's huge retirement liability Monday night, approving the creation of a group insurance liability fund. Through the special investment fund, the town could eventually pay for what it will owe to retired employees for benefits, mainly health care.

Dedham has plan to fund retirement benefits (The Daily News Transcript)

11/20/2008
Mercy officials make a case for health facility (South Hills Record)
Several members of the Mercy Behavioral Health staff gave testimony to the Baldwin Township Board of Commissioners Monday night as to why one of its facilities should be allowed in their neighborhood.  read more »

Mercy officials make a case for health facility (South Hills Record)

11/20/2008
18 Attorneys Serving on Obama's Education, Labor, Health and Technology Transition Teams (Law.com)
Some 18 lawyers have been tapped by the transition organization of President-elect Barack Obama to serve on teams examining policy and budget issues on national social issues related to education, labor, health and technology.

18 Attorneys Serving on Obama's Education, Labor, Health and Technology Transition Teams (Law.com)

11/20/2008
What Happens if Your Employer Goes Broke (Washington Post)
What will happen to my health insurance and retirement plans if my employer files for bankruptcy?

What Happens if Your Employer Goes Broke (Washington Post)

11/20/2008
'Mind spa' comes to retirement hotspots; This is your brain on exercise (C-Health)
SARASOTA, Fla. - Seniors in this retirement hotspot diligently packed the local Y, sweating to keep their bodies in shape. But after their workout, several couldn't remember where they put their car keys.

'Mind spa' comes to retirement hotspots; This is your brain on exercise (C-Health)

11/20/2008
Retirement dreams yield to despair (MSNBC)
A rising number of people have seen their retirement plans evaporate. As 401(k)s dwindle, their dreams of golden years are being replaced by feelings of hopelessness and  anger.

Retirement dreams yield to despair (MSNBC)

11/20/2008
18 Attorneys Serving on Obama's Education, Labor, Health and Technology Transition Teams (Law.com)
Some 18 lawyers have been tapped by the transition organization of President-elect Barack Obama to serve on teams examining policy and budget issues on national social issues related to education, labor, health and technology.

18 Attorneys Serving on Obama's Education, Labor, Health and Technology Transition Teams (Law.com)