Why Bone Health Matters After 70 – The Hidden Risk of Fragile Bones
As we age, our bodies change — and one of the most silent yet serious changes is the gradual weakening of our bones. After age 70, the risk of osteoporosis and fragility fractures increases dramatically, especially among women and those with long-term health conditions. But many people are unaware until they experience a fall that leads to a broken bone.
Understanding Bone Density and Ageing
Bone density refers to the strength and thickness of your bones. It’s at its peak in your 30s, but as you grow older, it starts to decline naturally. For some people, this decline is slow and manageable. For others, it can lead to osteoporosis — a condition where bones become porous, brittle, and prone to breaking even from minor bumps or falls.
What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis literally means “porous bones.” It’s a condition that weakens bones and makes them more likely to break. It’s especially common in people over 70 and often goes unnoticed until a fracture occurs. Common fracture sites include the hip, wrist, and spine. According to the NHS, more than 3 million people in the UK are estimated to have osteoporosis.
The Silent Nature of Bone Loss
Osteoporosis is often called the “silent disease” because it develops without obvious symptoms. There is no pain or warning until a bone breaks. This is why regular check-ups and DEXA scans (bone density tests) become essential as we age.
Who Is Most at Risk?
- Women post-menopause (due to drop in oestrogen)
- Men over 70 with low testosterone or sedentary lifestyle
- People on long-term steroid medication
- Those with a family history of osteoporosis
- Anyone with low body weight or vitamin D deficiency
Fractures: More Than Just Broken Bones
For older adults, a broken bone is not just a short-term inconvenience — it can mean a long hospital stay, reduced mobility, and even loss of independence. A hip fracture, for example, can take months to recover from and sometimes leads to permanent changes in lifestyle. Prevention is far more effective than recovery.
Can Bone Loss Be Prevented?
Absolutely. Through a combination of good nutrition, regular movement, vitamin D, fall prevention strategies, and medical monitoring, you can protect your bones well into your 80s and 90s. Prevention starts with awareness — and you’re already doing that by reading this.
Should I Get a Bone Density Scan?
If you’re over 70 and especially if you’ve had a fall, you can ask your GP about a DEXA scan. This simple, painless test checks your bone density and helps assess your fracture risk. NHS guidelines recommend it for anyone at high risk or with early signs of bone weakness.
Small Steps, Stronger Bones
Taking care of your bones doesn’t require extreme changes — just consistent, positive action. In future blogs, we’ll explore diet, movement, supplements, fall-proofing your home, and even how cognitive health affects physical resilience. Everything is connected, and you don’t have to do it alone.
“What is one small daily habit that could either be helping or harming your bone health without you even realising? Think about your sitting time, posture, or movement patterns – and write it down. You can discuss it in our upcoming Cognitive Resilience Café.”
Next up: Blog 2 – Building Better Bones Through Diet