National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month

May marks National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month, a time to highlight the importance of bone health—especially among older adults. At Grace Ridge Retirement Community, we believe in empowering our residents with the knowledge and tools to live vibrant, active lives. As a Life Plan Community in the scenic foothills of Morganton, NC, we’re proud to support wellness through education, prevention, and personalized care.

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Understanding Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is often called the "silent disease" because it develops without symptoms until a fracture occurs. It weakens bones and increases the risk of breaks, particularly in the hips, spine, and wrists—areas that can dramatically affect mobility and independence.

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Common Risk Factors:

• Aging
  
• Hormonal changes (especially post-menopause)
  
• Nutritional deficiencies (low calcium & vitamin D)
  
• Sedentary lifestyle
  
• Family history
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Why Awareness Matters at Grace Ridge

With a full continuum of care—from independent living to skilled nursing—Grace Ridge is uniquely positioned to address age-related health conditions like osteoporosis. Promoting awareness this May helps our community take preventive steps that enhance quality of life and reduce the risk of injury.

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Ways to Maintain Strong Bones

Eat a Bone-Healthy Diet

Our award-winning Dining Services team—recognized nationally by Morrison Healthcare—crafts meals that include:

• Calcium-rich dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt)
  
• Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
  
• Omega-3-packed fish (salmon, sardines)
  
• Fortified cereals and juices
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Stay Physically Active

Residents enjoy a variety of wellness classes and fitness programs that support bone health and mobility:

• Walking trails across our 52-acre campus
  
• Yoga, Tai Chi, and strength training in our fitness studio
  
• Aqua aerobics in our indoor heated pool
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Avoid Bone-Weakening Habits

At Grace Ridge, our wellness programming encourages:

• Moderation in alcohol and caffeine
  
• Smoking cessation support
  
• Lifestyle coaching from our on-site clinic team
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Get Regular Screenings

We encourage all residents—especially women over 50—to schedule DEXA bone density scans. Our Health Care Center and clinic staff can help with referrals and follow-up care to stay ahead of osteoporosis.

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Join the Movement

This May, we invite all residents, staff, and families to participate in:

• Educational workshops on bone health
  
• Community wellness walks
  
• Osteoporosis awareness displays throughout Grace Ridge
  

Together, we can take small, proactive steps that have a lasting impact. Whether you're enjoying the view from your independent living apartment or participating in a wellness event, you deserve to feel strong, supported, and informed.

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Spread the Word

Help make osteoporosis prevention a community priority. Talk to your care team, check out our events calendar, or share your own wellness tips with neighbors and family.

👉 Contact our Wellness Team to learn more or schedule a screening this month.
📞 828-630-7321