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Osteoporosis: Risks & Prevention
Adults with developmental disabilities are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis –
a bone disease that makes them vulnerable to fractures. Keep reading to learn more.
Detection
85% of fractures in people with developmental
disabilities involve extremities like the
thighbone, hands and feet. Since people
can’t always self-report, pay special
attention to the possibility of a
fracture if someone is acting out
of the ordinary.
Risk Factors
• Impaired mobility/weight bearing
• Low calcium intake
• Lack of exercise
• Age and body weight
• Psychotropic and anti-seizure
medications taken on a
long-term basis
• Fall history
• Postmenopausal women
• Medical conditions like
rheumatoid arthritis, chronic
kidney disease, diabetes,
hyper-thyrodism and
neurological disorders
Screening and
assessments
• Screening should begin
before the age of 50
• For assessments, try a
hand or forearm scan
rather than x-rays, which
can be dicult or
frightening for some
individuals
Maintain a healthy body weight
Being under or overweight is
damaging to bone health
Maintain a healthy diet
Calcium, protein and
vitamin D are three key
nutrients for bone health
Get active
Being active and exercising
support strong bones
Tips for prevention
Photo by Owen Beard on Unsplash