Here are some common questions and answers that caregivers ask about osteoporosis and their aging parents:
My mom has already had a fracture. Is it too late to talk to my doctor about osteoporosis?
It is never too late. Ideally, you should talk to your doctor during your mother's recovery about whether she might be a candidate for an osteoporosis evaluation. But even if her fracture has healed, she can be evaluated and begin taking steps to protect her bones.
What kind of doctor should I see about getting an osteoporosis evaluation?
Many different kinds of doctors can evaluate and treat osteoporosis. Start with your primary care physician or the doctor treating your loved one's fracture. He or she will likely be able to conduct the evaluation and may then refer you to a specialist, such as an endocrinologist or rheumatologist, if you require treatment.
What does an osteoporosis evaluation involve?
One thing your doctor will do is ask about your paren'ts medical history and lifestyle to determine whether he/she has risk factors for osteoporosis. Some of the factors that increase the risk of developing osteoporosis include: personal or family history of fractures; low levels of the hormone estrogen or testosterone; and the use of certain medications, such as glucocorticoids or antiseizure medications, that may contribute to bone fragility. Your doctor also may want to test your elderly parent's blood or urine and may suggest that he/she have a bone mineral density (BMD) test.
What is a bone mineral density test? Is it painful?
A bone mineral density (BMD) test is the best way to determine bone health. BMD tests can identify osteoporosis, determine your elder's risk for fractures (broken bones), and measure response to osteoporosis treatment.
The most widely recognized bone mineral density test is called a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry or DXA test. It is painless: a bit like having an x ray, but with much less exposure to radiation. It can measure bone density at the hip and spine. The test is safe and easy, taking only 15 minutes or less to complete. For a DXA test, your elderly parent will be asked to lie on a table while a machine above measures bone density. Some private insurance plans will cover BMD tests ordered by a doctor. Medicare also may pay for a BMD test under certain circumstances for women and men aged 65 or older. Your doctor and his or her office staff can help you determine if Medicare will cover a BMD test.