Osteoporosis accounts for 2.5 million medical office visits and 432,000 hospital admissions each year. One in two women and one in five men over 50 will have an osteoporosis-related event in their lifetime.

Osteoporosis is preventable and treatable.  Research indicates seniors who exercise with weights face fewer health problems related to mobility, maintain muscle and bone strength and enjoy a more independent and active lifestyle.

VNA California gives four steps for prevention:

1. Maintain a balanced diet rich in Calcium and Vitamin D
2. Determine a fitness regimen right for you, that includes weight-bearing exercise and resistance loading
3. Practice healthy living by limiting alcohol and avoiding smoking
4. Have regular bone density testing

VNA California has partnered with Geri-Fit to host a seminar on Monday, March 18, 2013 on how to be proactive against the onset of osteoporosis.  The 45-minute presentation will be held at 2 p.m. at the VNA California Palm Desert office located at 42-600 Cook Street, Suite 202 in Palm Desert, California.

The seminar features a certified strength trainer who will demonstrate 15 primary strength-training exercises.  No participation is required.  The event will include free blood pressure readings and balance screens for all attendees. Space is limited. Reservations are required.  To reserve a spot, call 855-VNA-CA11 (855-862-2211). Men and women of all ages and fitness levels are encouraged to attend.

Geri-fit created the first exercise program to include weights for older adults nearly 20 years ago. A team of healthcare professionals including a geriatrician, physical therapists and exercise physiologists created the program that can be done while seated in a chair with just a set of 2-pound dumbbells. Participants should check with their personal physician to determine if the Geri-Fit program is an appropriate addition to their personal care.

About VNA California

VNA California has been providing skilled nursing, rehabilitative, and hospice care to patients in their homes or places of residence since 1931.  One of the oldest home health care providers in Southern California, VNA California supports 10,000+ patients with 300,000+ visits each year.  As the only community-based non-profit to offer a complete continuum of home care, VNA California provides Home Health, Rehabilitative, Palliative, and Hospice services throughout Riverside, San Bernardino, East Los Angeles and North San Diego Counties.  In addition, VNA’s Community Outreach efforts include Mourning Star Centers for child and teen grief and bereavement, the Nightingale Society, Charity Care Services, adult bereavement, professional continuing education and seminars and workshops on a variety of health-related topics. For more information or to volunteer call 855-VNA-CA11 or visit www.VNACalifornia.org.