Changes in the Skeletal System Due to Age

As we age, our skeletal system goes through changes that eventually can lead to conditions such as osteoporosis or arthritis.

Bone Structure

• Our bones have an outer layer called cortical, or compact, bone and an inner layer called trabecular, or spongy, bone. Bone marrow is in the spaces between the trabeculae. (See References 3)

Bone Density Loss

• After age 30, our bones become more porous as they lose mass. (See References 1) This process speeds up after age 50 and, for women, it intensifies during and after menopause.

Bone Replacement and Aging

• Our bodies make new bone, to replace any that is lost. But as we get older, less of the lost bone is replaced. (See References 3) The stronger our bones are before the rate of loss increases, the better.

The Spine and Feet

• During aging, vertebrae become thinner, the spine compresses, and the padding between the vertebrae wears away, making the trunk of the body look shorter. The arch of the foot bone lessens, contributing to the apparent loss of height.

Joints

• Joints become less flexible as we get older, and minerals can calcify in areas like the shoulder. The bones of finger joints become thicker, and hips and knees can begin to degenerate, sometimes requiring surgical replacement. (See References 2)

Keeping Bones Strong

• To slow skeletal deterioration, do weight bearing exercise to strengthen bones, and have a minimum calcium intake of 1,300 mg of calcium per day for women past menopause, and men over 65. (See References 3)