Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens the structure of the bones, reducing their strength and making them more susceptible to fractures and breaks. It often develops slowly over time and may go unnoticed until a fall or injury occurs.
While the condition is more commonly diagnosed in women — particularly after menopause — anyone over the age of 60 is at increased risk. Early detection and the right support can make a significant difference in managing the condition and maintaining independence.
The word osteoporosis comes from Greek, meaning “porous bones”. It is a condition that causes bones to lose density and strength over time, making them more fragile and prone to fractures.
Often called the “silent disease”, osteoporosis rarely presents with symptoms in its early stages. Many people remain unaware they have the condition until they experience a fracture, typically following a minor fall or accident.
Despite the lack of visible signs, osteoporosis is widespread. It is estimated that around 3.5 million people over the age of 50 in the UK are living with the condition. Statistics show that 1 in 2 women and 1 in 5 men over 50 will suffer a fracture related to osteoporosis during their lifetime.
There are two main types of osteoporosis:
Primary Osteoporosis
This is the most common form and is usually linked to ageing and hormonal changes, particularly the decline in oestrogen levels following menopause.
Secondary Osteoporosis
This occurs as a result of another medical condition or as a side effect of certain medications. Conditions such as coeliac disease, cancer, or hormonal disorders can increase the risk, as can long-term use of steroids and some cancer treatments.
Early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and appropriate treatment can help manage the effects of osteoporosis and reduce the risk of serious fractures. At Response Care, we understand how important it is to adapt care to maintain mobility, prevent falls, and support a safe, independent lifestyle at home.
While some people may be genetically predisposed to osteoporosis, there are a range of other contributing factors that can influence how likely someone is to develop the condition.
Women are more commonly affected than men, and often experience signs of bone weakening at an earlier age. This is largely due to hormonal changes during the menopause — when levels of oestrogen drop, bone density tends to decrease more rapidly. Women also typically have lighter and less dense bones than men, making them more susceptible to fractures.
However, osteoporosis can affect men too, particularly those over the age of 70, and should not be viewed as a condition exclusive to women.
There are several lifestyle, dietary, and medical factors that can increase a person’s risk of developing osteoporosis:
Being significantly underweight or overweight
Excessive alcohol consumption
Smoking
Lack of regular weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, dancing, or light aerobics
A poor diet, particularly one low in calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients
A family history of osteoporosis
Low bone mass after the age of 30
Osteopenia, a condition where bone density is lower than average
Low testosterone levels in men
Certain long-term medical conditions or medications that affect bone health
Understanding these risk factors allows for early intervention and better management. At Response Care, we recognise the importance of a tailored care approach — supporting individuals to build strength, reduce fall risk, and maintain their independence for as long as possible.
Caring for someone with osteoporosis requires a thoughtful approach that focuses on prevention, safety, and daily support. While the condition cannot be reversed, there are many ways to manage its progression and reduce the risk of serious injury or complications.
Although osteoporosis cannot be cured, it can often be delayed or better managed with the right strategies — particularly for those identified as being at higher risk.
If you suspect your loved one may be vulnerable to bone loss, it’s advisable to speak with a GP about arranging a bone density scan (DEXA scan). This test measures bone strength and can detect signs of fragility before fractures occur.
To support bone health and reduce the risk of fractures, the following steps may help:
Address risk factors – such as stopping smoking, moderating alcohol intake, and improving nutrition
Engage in weight-bearing activities – such as walking, dancing, or gentle strength training
Incorporate bone-building and balance exercises – to improve posture, muscle tone, and reduce the risk of falls
Ensure a balanced diet – rich in calcium and vitamin D, through food or supplements where necessary
Supporting your loved one in making these changes can help preserve their independence and improve quality of life.
Caring for someone with osteoporosis at home involves a combination of medical treatment, fall prevention, lifestyle changes, and consistent support. Although the condition itself cannot be reversed, effective management can significantly reduce the risk of fractures and help maintain independence and wellbeing.
Fall prevention is one of the most critical elements of osteoporosis care. Even minor falls can lead to fractures in those with fragile bones. Making small adjustments around the home can make a significant difference:
Remove trip hazards, such as loose rugs, trailing wires, or unstable doorstops
Rearrange or remove sharp-edged furniture in areas where movement is most frequent
Use anti-slip mats in the bath, shower, and on bathroom floors
Encourage regular sight and hearing checks to ensure sensory issues don’t contribute to accidents
A safe, well-organised living space plays a vital role in reducing risk and supporting confidence in day-to-day movement.
Ongoing care for osteoporosis may involve a number of regular appointments — such as GP visits, physiotherapy, bone density scans, and hearing or vision checks.
Keeping a visible calendar in the home can help everyone stay on top of upcoming appointments, including family members and any live-in or visiting carers. Clear planning ensures that appointments are not missed and that your loved one continues to receive the care and monitoring they need.
Medication is often prescribed to help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures. These may include:
Bisphosphonates – to slow bone loss and strengthen existing bone
Hormone-based treatments, such as selective oestrogen receptor modulators (SERMs)
Calcium and vitamin D supplements, where dietary intake is insufficient
Some people may manage their own medication independently, while others may need help remembering or administering it. It’s important that any medication routine is clearly outlined in their care plan and regularly reviewed by a healthcare professional.
Encouraging a balanced lifestyle is a key part of osteoporosis care. This includes:
Stopping smoking and limiting alcohol and caffeine intake
Eating a diet rich in nutrients that support bone health, including calcium, vitamin D, vitamin K, and zinc
Reducing highly processed foods and focusing on whole, nourishing meals
Promoting gentle movement and activity, such as light walking or helping with the weekly food shop
Where possible, try to build these activities into a shared routine — making health and wellbeing something you work on together.
At Response Care, we believe that a holistic, person-centred approach to osteoporosis care helps individuals stay safe, well, and independent in the place they feel most at ease — their own home. Our live-in carers are trained to support bone health, prevent falls, and promote overall wellbeing every day.
For older individuals living with osteoporosis, the risk of falling — and the potential for fractures — can be a real concern. Areas such as the hips, spine, and wrists are particularly vulnerable, and even a minor fall can result in serious injury.
This fear can sometimes lead people to reduce their activity levels in an attempt to stay safe. Unfortunately, this approach can have the opposite effect — leading to stiffness, reduced muscle strength, loss of balance, and ultimately, a higher risk of falling.
A live-in carer can provide essential support to reduce both physical risk and emotional worry. Their presence offers:
Assistance with safe movement and mobility
Help with medication routines and treatment plans
Support for daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and laundry
Encouragement to stay active and engaged in a safe and supported way
One of the greatest advantages of live-in care is that it allows your loved one to remain in the comfort of their own home — surrounded by familiar belongings, memories, and routines. This environment is not only reassuring but also contributes to emotional wellbeing and independence.
At Response Care, we place great emphasis on matching each carer thoughtfully to the individual they support — taking into account personality, lifestyle, and interests. This helps create a strong and trusting relationship, allowing carer and client to live harmoniously and form meaningful connections.
With a compassionate and experienced carer on hand day and night, families gain peace of mind knowing that their loved one is safe, supported, and not alone.
