I went for a home visit recently because an elderly gentleman had fallen and suffered a hip fracture. As I sat with him and his worried family, I realized how often I come across such situations. It made me think: perhaps it is time to write about some very important bone and joint issues that affect seniors—osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, fractures, gait problems, and falls. These conditions are not just medical terms; they are realities that can change the course of a person’s life overnight.

Osteoarthritis – When Joints Grow Old

Osteoarthritis is often called “wear and tear” of the joints. With age, the smooth cartilage that cushions our bones starts wearing down, leading to pain, stiffness and swelling. Knees, hips, and hands are the most commonly affected.

How it feels: Seniors may complain of morning stiffness, pain after walking, or difficulty climbing stairs.

Prevention & Care:

Maintain a healthy weight—every extra kilo puts more load on the knees.

Do gentle exercises like walking or swimming to keep joints flexible.

Avoid over-straining the joints; use supportive footwear and walking aids if needed.

Warm compresses, painkiller ointments & patches and physiotherapy often........

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