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Osteoporosis & Grandparent Guilt Osteoporosis affects over 10 million people in North America. Two
million of these are men. Osteopenia, a reduction in bone mass that
usually occurs before osteoporosis, affects over 44 million people, 32%
of whom are men.
One out of every two women and one in
four men age 50 and older will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in
their lifetime. Each year, 80,000 men have a hip fracture and one-third
of these men die within a year.
Osteoporosis is responsible for more than 1.5 million fractures annually, including approximately:
- 300,000 hip fractures
- 700,000 vertebral fractures
- 250,000 wrist fractures
- And more than 300,000 fractures at other sites.
No wonder many grandparents are hesitant to lift their grandchildren!
Grandparent guilt
The issue of grandparent guilt has been discussed for many years. It
arises when a grandparent cannot do the things he or she feels is
necessary to fulfill their role. Concerns like osteoporosis, arthritis
and even incontinence are listed as common reasons for not fully
engaging with grandchildren.
Watching the exuberance of youth reminds us of a time in our life when
we were more carefree. An old Chinese proverb says, “Even the old horse
in the stable yearns to run.” This wistful longing for a body that
matches the mind (forever 19) can lead to melancholia and guilt.
But guilt is not necessarily a bad thing.
Benefits of guilt
Guilt is a very misunderstood emotion. Feelings of guilt often arise
from unrealistic expectations that we set for ourselves or that others
set for us. So it's important to examine what's expected within the
context of our life.
We can use guilt constructively to remedy situations we feel badly
about. Guilt can prompt us to change our behavior. For example, do you
believe that aerobic exercise and resistance training could benefit
you? Guilt concerning what you should do, what you are able to do and
what you have been doing may prompt you to intensify your efforts to
exercise more. This will leave you happier, healthier and more able to
engage with those rambunctious kids – a very good result!
Use this technique to examine other aspects of your life as well. Ask yourself:
- What do I want?
- Why do I want it?
- What’s so important?
- What should I do?
- What will I do?
- When will I do it?
- Who will support me as I meet this new challenge?
Foundation for longevity
A few helpful hints from centenarians (people over 100 years of age)
can help us all stay engaged with grandchildren and others as we go
through life:
- Reduce stress
- Stay connected with other people
- Cultivate optimism
- Watch your diet
- Exercise: even a little helps
- Floss your teeth
Proper supplementation aids vitality as well:
Conclusion
Another old Chinese proverb says, “A journey of a thousand miles begins
with a single step” (literally, “from where you stand”). Use that
twinge of guilt to awaken you to greater possibilities for yourself and
those you love. Decide what you want and why you want it. Then, take
the first step!
Take Control of Your Health
- Listen to your feelings
- Dare to dream
- Take care of yourself
- Build a solid foundation on the 10 Essentials
- Use Healthy Aging supplements
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Please note that Weekly Wellness Report topics will be chosen at the
discretion of Brazos Minshew and based on general relevance.
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA, and are not
intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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