Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens the bones. This makes them more fragile and likely to break following a fall or slip. We provide home care in Romford to support people with osteoporosis to live safely and independently at home for as long as possible. Read on to discover how our home care services can benefit those living with this health condition.
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a health condition that typically affects people over the age of 60. In the UK alone, approximately 3 million people are affected by osteoporosis with over 500,000 people receiving hospital treatment as a result of fragility fractures.
Osteoporosis generally develops slowly over many years and is often only diagnosed following an accident. Because there are no obvious early signs, it’s known as the ‘silent disease’. Here are some signs and symptoms that may gradually being to appear as the bones lose more mass and become weaker:
- height loss
- stooped posture
- pain
- fractures that occur with little to no provocation.
Living with osteoporosis
Living with osteoporosis certainly brings additional challenges and obstacles to everyday life. While many ageing adults experience limited mobility in general, pain and fear of fractures can hinder movement all the more. Daily tasks that you could once do with ease, such as getting out of bed or moving from room to room, can suddenly be difficult. Certain things around the home, that weren’t previously hazardous can now also require extra care and attention. This includes making sure rugs and carpets are secure, or that rubber mats are installed to reduce the risk of slipping.
In addition, dealing with brittle bones can significantly impact a person’s confidence and instil a sense of fear. Falls or injuries inside or outside of the home may cause a person to stop participating in activities they once enjoyed or getting out and about in the ways they used to. This can lead to social isolation which can have a severe negative consequence on a person’s mental health and emotional wellbeing.
How can home care help?
Home care is personalised and practical support provided in the comfort of a person’s home. Although there is no cure for osteoporosis, home care can empower a person diagnosed with the condition to continue living an active and fulfilled life.
Our home care services are tailored to meet a person’s unique needs, desires and preferences. While preventing falls, fractures, and other injuries are our top priority, our compassionate carers can also help in the kitchen, and provide consistent companionship and support with personal care items such as toileting, dressing and washing. In addition, they can help with medical needs by making sure prescriptions are picked up, doctor appointments are attended and medication is taken as necessary.
With the support from a professional carer, it’s possible to continue living a high-quality life in the place you love best – home.
Get in touch
If you or a family member are living with osteoporosis and could benefit from the support of our home care services, please do not hesitate to get in touch or give us a call on 0800 999 3447. Our professional staff would be happy to answer any of your questions or provide more information on how we can help.