Strong Bones, Longer Life: Why Bone Health Deserves a Spot in Your Longevity Plan

When we think about aging well, we often focus on heart health, brain function, or maintaining muscle mass—but bone health deserves just as much attention. It’s not just about preventing osteoporosis or avoiding a fracture. The reality is far more serious: bone health directly impacts survival.

According to CDC data, falls are one of the leading causes of injury-related death in adults over 65. Hip fractures are especially dangerous. Among those in their 90s, up to 40% die within a year of breaking a hip. Even for people in their 80s, the mortality rate is roughly one-third within 12 months of a hip fracture. Why so high? Because immobility after a serious break leads to a cascade of complications like blood clots, pneumonia, and pressure sores—often accelerating decline.

The risk of serious fractures and related complications rises significantly starting in our 70s, and continues to grow with each passing decade. But here’s the good news: this isn’t an inevitable part of aging. Bone loss can be slowed, and even partially reversed, with the right mix of strength training, nutrition, and medical interventions.

Bone health isn’t just a subset of your wellness plan—it’s a pillar of it. Prioritizing strong bones from early adulthood onward can pay off in real, life-extending ways. Screenings, resistance training, and smart nutrition should all be part of a comprehensive approach to aging well. Because when your bones are strong, your foundation is strong—for movement, independence, and longevity.

Percent distribution of injury deaths, by intent and cause among adults aged 65 and over: United States, 2012–2013

NOTE: Percents may not total 100% due to rounding. SOURCE: CDC/NCHS, National Vital Statistics System, Mortality.