Preventing Osteoporosis in residential and aged care communities: a toolkit for aged care staff


Himasha Nanayakkara

Abstract

Osteoporosis is a silent disease and presents with no symptoms before causing minimal trauma fractures resulting in prolonged hospital stays and increased mortality. There are many misconceptions around Osteoporosis and many older adults have limited knowledge surrounding the condition. The aim of this project was to create a toolkit for service providers and staff of aged care centres to assist in preventing osteoporosis. By bringing awareness to osteoporosis amongst staff, we aim to support them in promoting preventative strategies within the aged care setting. The booklet comprised of fact sheets on Osteoporosis followed by information about lifestyle prevention strategies, such as calcium, vitamin D and exercise. It also contained a section on practical ways of educating their clients, with focus on education, encouraging consultation with GP's and an exercise program. Using literature on osteoporosis prevention and creating health education material, the booklet was created for aged care staff to educate their residents to improve their bone health.