Geriatric Disorders

Common Disorders

Some common geriatric bone disorders include:

1. Osteoporosis: This is a condition characterized by low bone density and increased risk of fractures. It is common in older adults, especially postmenopausal women, due to hormonal changes and decreased bone reabsorption.
2. Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage and bones in joints, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Aging and wear and tear on joints over time contribute to the development of osteoarthritis.
3. Sarcopenia: it means muscle weakness which occurs in old age. Like bones become weak , muscles also become weak because of decrease in sex hormones and less physical activity.
4. Rheumatoid arthritis: is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints. It causes chronic inflammation, joint pain, swelling, and stiffness in affected individuals. While it can occur at any age, it is more commonly diagnosed in older adults.
5. Osteomalacia: is a disorder characterized by softening of the bones due to a deficiency of vitamin D or calcium in older adults. It can lead to bone pain, fractures, and muscle weakness.
6. Bone fractures: Older adults are more susceptible to fractures due to age-related changes in bone density, muscle weakness, and a higher risk of falls. Common fractures in the elderly include hip fractures, vertebral fractures, and wrist fractures.

What to do?

It is important for older adults to take preventative measures, such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, and getting regular bone density screenings, to reduce the risk of developing these geriatric bone disorders.