Management of osteoporosis in geriatric populations

The incidence of osteoporotic fractures increases with advancing age and is associated with significant health care expenditures, particularly related to hip fractures and loss of quality of life. Unfortunately, few studies have included subjects 80 years of age and older to help guide management of elderly patients who are living in the community or in long-term care facilities. Treating this age group encompasses the same general measures and pharmacologic therapies as in younger adults. Focusing on fall prevention and adequate vitamin D is essential. All prevention strategies in the elderly for fracture risk reduction should include simple vitamin D and calcium supplementation. However, for those at high risk of fracture, adding pharmacologic therapy should be considered. This article reviews recent research findings of general measures and pharmacologic therapy that are applicable to managing osteoporosis in the elderly.