Researchers looked at a group of nearly 6,000 men, aged 65 and older, including 52 with PD, to determine the association between the disease and low bone density and falls in older men. Those with PD were found to have significantly lower bone density at the spine and hip. Further, PD was associated with a nearly three times greater risk of multiple future falls.
With lower bone density and the increased risk for falls, older men with PD are more likely to have less dense or "thin" bones that are more easily fractured or broken, compared to those who don't have the disease.
However, because most of the men who participated in the study were community dwelling (rather than in nursing homes or similar facilities), largely healthy, and white, these findings might not apply to those with more severe PD, to women, to those in nursing homes, or to other racial groups, the researchers report.
The researchers suggest that older men with Parkinson's disease ask their physicians about having their bone density measured. Patients should also inquire about ways to boost bone density with safe exercises and appropriate doses of such bone-building nutrients such as calcium and vitamins D and K.
Parkinson's disease is a treatable, but not curable, nerve disorder that causes worsening tremors, difficulty moving, and balance problems. PD is increasingly common with age and affects about 6 in every 1,000 adults aged 65 to 69, and 30 in every 1,000 adults older than 80.
This study is published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. For more information on this topic and to read additional patient-friendly summaries of articles in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, please visit http://www.healthinaging.org/agingintheknow/research.asp.
Media wishing to receive a PDF of the study please contact medicalnews@bos.blackwellpublishing.com.
About the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
The Journal of the American Geriatrics Society publishes articles that are relevant in the broadest terms to the clinical care of older persons. Such articles may span a variety of disciplines and fields and may be of immediate, intermediate, or long-term potential benefit to clinical practice.
About the American Geriatrics Society
The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) is the premier professional organization of health care providers dedicated to improving the health and well-being of all older adults. With an active membership of over 6,000 health care professionals, the AGS has a long history of effecting change in the provision of health care for older adults. In the last decade, the Society has become a pivotal force in shaping attitudes, policies and practices regarding health care for older people. Visit www.americangeriatrics.org for more information.
About Blackwell Publishing
Blackwell Publishing is the world's leading society publisher, partnering with more than 600 academic and professional societies. Blackwell publishes over 750 journals annually and, to date has published close to 6,000 text and reference books, across a wide range of academic, medical, and professional subjects.
Journal
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society