When it comes to retirement, people want to spend their golden years in a more relaxed environment, which is why many retirees move to the State of Florida. Low costs of living, lack of state income tax, and its warm and mild weather are just a few reasons why many choose "The Sunshine State" as their new home.

There are many retirement communities in Florida that are designed for different types of older adults with varying needs and preferences. For instance, there are independent living communities for retirees who are capable of living alone, and continuing care communities for those who require skilled nursing services and medical care. For the latter type of community, the availability of doctors, especially orthopaedic surgeons in South Florida, is important for the holistic care of residents.

How Age Affects Your Bones
Bone density decreases with advancing age, thereby leading to weak or brittle bones. Fluids between joints also begin to dry up and significantly reduces an older adult's physical mobility. Although adequate exercise and a proper diet can prevent most health problems, older adults with musculoskeletal problems should always consult a doctor.

Common Bone-Related Problems
Osteoporosis. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), about 44 million people in the US suffer from osteoporosis, a disease characterized by progressive bone loss. Although the exact cause of osteoporosis is still unknown, factors like age, family history, nutrition, lifestyle, and other illnesses have been known to contribute to the gradual reduction of an individual's bone density.

Arthritis. Inflamed joints, or arthritis, causes pain every time you move your affected arm, knee, or hands because the joints between bones are not adequately cushioned by synovial fluid. Arthritis usually affects weight-bearing joints and can become a chronic condition. In fact, arthritis is said to be the main cause of disability among people over fifty-five years of age.

Although less bone mass is expected with old age, you still need to consider exercise, calcium supplementation, and a balanced diet to prevent bone-related problems. It is also important to consult your South Florida orthopedics surgeons before undergoing any treatment or starting a particular exercise program as there is no one-size-fits-all solution to these problems. To learn more about common elderly bone problems, visit the following links: orthoinfo.aaos.org/menus/seniors.cfm and nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/004015.htm.