Why Aging Bones Are More Vulnerable
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INDIANAPOLIS— As you age, your body becomes less equipped to protect bones from falls, making injuries more common and recovery harder.
Dr. Joey Wallace, a professor at the Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering at Purdue University Indianapolis, explains that soft tissues lose their ability to absorb impact energy over time, leaving bones vulnerable.
“The energy your body could handle in your youth becomes harder to dissipate as you age,” Wallace said. “Combine that with slower repair mechanisms in older bones, and fractures become a real risk.”
Wallace said that winter is especially dangerous for older adults. He advises avoiding icy surfaces and asking younger family members for help with heavy tasks, like moving Christmas decorations. “Just don’t take the risk,” he said.
One way to monitor bone health is with a DEXA scan, a quick and affordable test available at most clinics. However, Wallace warns against overusing X-rays. “While effective, repeated exposure to ionizing radiation can harm your body,” he explained.
Wallace adds that eating well and staying active are key to strengthening bones. “Bones aren’t just there to hold you up—they’re constantly working and need the right care to stay healthy.”
Small steps like these can make a big difference for older adults in avoiding fractures and staying safe during the colder months.
