With further bone loss, low bone density (sometimes called osteopenia) can lead to osteoporosis. This makes the bones weaker and makes them more likely to break ( fracture). As this occurs, our bones lose calcium and other minerals. This is because existing bone tissue is broken down faster than new bone is made. Bones naturally become thinner as you grow older. This information helps your doctor estimate the strength of your bones. It measures the density of minerals (such as calcium) in your bones. Your doctor can help you choose activities that are right for you.A bone density test is a kind of X-ray test. If you have a health condition or a disability, be as active as you can.
Check with your local community center or senior center to find fun, affordable ways to get active. You don't need special equipment or a gym membership to stay active. Team up with a friend or join a fitness class - getting active with others can help you stick with it.Do muscle-strengthening activities at least 2 days a week.Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity a week - remember, a nything that gets your heart beating faster counts!.Weight-bearing activities (like running or doing jumping jacks) can also help keep your bones strong. Muscle-strengthening activities - like lifting weights or using resistance bands (long rubber strips that stretch) - are best for bone health. Physical activity can help slow down bone loss.
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Free preventive care for adults covered by the Affordable Care Act.To learn more, check out these resources: Find a health center near you and ask about bone density tests. If you don’t have insurance, you may still be able to get a free or low-cost bone density test. If you have Medicare, learn about Medicare coverage for bone density tests. Medicare may also cover bone density tests at no cost. Check with your insurance company to find out more. Women age 64 and younger who have gone through menopause who are at increased risk for osteoporosisĭepending on your insurance plan, you may be able to get screened at no cost to you.Under the Affordable Care Act, insurance plans must cover screening for osteoporosis for: Use these questions about osteoporosis to start a conversation with your doctor at your next checkup. Schedule a bone density test if your doctor recommends it.Īsk your doctor if you’re at risk for osteoporosis and if you need to schedule a bone density test. Take these steps to protect your bone health. The test doesn't hurt, and you don't need to do anything to prepare for it. What happens during a bone density test?Ī bone density test is like an x-ray or scan of your body. That’s why it’s so important to get a bone density test to measure your bone strength.
You might not know you have the disease until you break a bone. There are no signs or symptoms of osteoporosis. People with osteoporosis most often break bones in the hip, spine, and wrist. It means your bones are weak and more likely to break. If you’re a man over age 65 and you’re concerned about your bone strength, talk with your doctor or nurse. If you’re a woman age 64 or younger and you have gone through menopause, ask your doctor if you need a bone density test.If you’re a woman age 65 or older, schedule a bone density test.Women are at higher risk for osteoporosis than men, and the risk increases with age. The test will tell you if you have osteoporosis (or weak bones), and it can help you understand your risk of breaking a bone in the future. A bone density test measures how strong your bones are.
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