Age Cymru Statement on World Osteoporosis Day 2022

On National Osteoporosis Day, Age Cymru welcomes Welsh Government initiatives to support older people living with musculoskeletal conditions

We very much welcome today’s launch by the Welsh Government of a Fracture Liaison Service Development and Quality Assurance Group. This group is aimed at preventing secondary fractures across Wales and to work with health boards to develop news ways of supporting people; many of whom will live musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions such as osteoporosis.

With increased waiting lists for older people seeking treatments, it is important that we help them to wait well to reduce any unnecessary deterioration in their physical and mental health. Our latest annual survey on older people’s experiences found that many older people felt increasingly lonely and isolated through suffering with reduced health and not knowing how to exercise safely.

Musculoskeletal conditions impact many older people across Wales. Older people on waiting lists should be signposted to community groups who can help with reducing loneliness though safe activities relevant to people’s expected diagnosis, as well as groups that can assist with pain management, healthy eating and overcoming addictions.

We should use the third sector to provide more support to complement health service treatment. We believe that third sector organisations provide added value as they often have increased flexibility over what public services can provide, with very tailored support focussed on what the person needs.

Here at Age Cymru we provide physical activities for older people such as Nordic Walking and Tai Chi as well as a range of creative activities.