New research has identified that falls could be a potential sign of oncoming Alzheimer’s, even if you’ve yet to experience difficulty learning, memory, or other early symptoms.
It’s possible that falling can indicate a lack of spatial awareness and balance, which are both related to perception.
Falling is also a leading cause of broken bones in older adults, and can often have serious consequences. The impact of a fall can lead to fractures and other bone breaks that can lead to immobility, a loss of independence, and even an increased risk of death.
You can’t see Alzheimer’s coming, and if the first sign is a fall, it can have devastating consequences. Therefore, along with working on strength and balance, it’s imperative to focus on bone health to prevent breaks.
Regardless of the reason you may have fallen, whether body or brain-related, your bones are going to have to be resilient. If they can’t absorb the impact, you could be in big trouble.
If you’re working on strength and balance to prevent falls, you’re already doing something for bones. Resistance exercise can help build bone density and strengthen joints and muscles, so you’re more resilient.
Nutrition is also essential. Getting enough calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium can help limit bone loss, so your bones stay strong, dense, and durable.
Exercise and nutrition can also play a role in Alzheimer’s risk, really making them the ultimate factors in your susceptibility to bone breaks. When you’re doing the things to stay healthy and balanced both physically and mentally, your bones may have the added protection they need.