Pamela Dombrowski-Wilson

Never thought you would grow old? Never thought you would be like your parents? Many of us baby boomers, now age 43-61 are beginning to face health care issues our parents face on a daily basis and we are surprised and shocked this is happening to us. We simply can't believe it.

How many of us have middle aged brothers and sisters? When we talk to them discussion always moves to the health topic.

How many times have you gone for your annual medical appointment and the doctor discussed your measures? How many times did you remember the numbers but not remember what they meant? I am referring to the measures of blood pressure and cholesterol. These combined are a fairly good predictor of heart health. According to the Centers for Disease Control, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.

Osteoporosis in itself causes more than just broken bones. It causes discomfort, pain, mobility issues and the possible loss of independence. Many older adults with fractures cannot continue to live independently. Many are forced to relocate to assisted living facilties or nursing homes because they cannot take care of their own daily needs.

Osteoporosis is a silent disease because many are unaware they have it until they break a bone or have a BMD screening, bone mineral density.