Osteoporosis in Older Adults

Osteoporosis and osteoporosis-related fractures are common causes of morbidity and mortality in older adults. Healthy adults should be counseled about measures to prevent osteoporosis. Women should be screened for osteoporosis beginning at age 65. Screening for osteoporosis in men should be considered when risk factors are present. Appropriate screening intervals are controversial. Women and men with osteoporosis should be offered pharmacologic therapy. Choice of therapy should be based on safety, cost, convenience, and other patient-related factors. Bisphosphonates are a first-line therapy for many patients with osteoporosis. Other treatments for osteoporosis include denosumab, teriparatide, abaloparatide, romosozumab, and selective estrogen receptor modulators.