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THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, JunE 26, 2026 Page 15 Sa Sa a Say y Senior enior Sen by Jim Miller Do Men Get Osteoporosis? Dear Savvy Senior, Can men get osteoporosis or is it mostly a problem for women? When I fell and broke my wrist last winter, the ER doctor told me I might have osteoporosis, but I never followed up. What can you tell me? --Almost 70 Dear Almost, A lot of people think osteoporosis is only a women’s issue, but men can get it too – especially as they get older. And like women, men often don’t realize they have it until a bone breaks. Osteoporosis is often called a silent disease because it weakens bones over time, making them thin, brittle and more likely to break, usually without any warning signs. While women are about four times more likely to develop it, men aren’t immune. About 2 million American men have osteoporosis, and another 12 million have low bone density, known as osteopenia, which can eventually progress to the disease. One of the biggest problems is that men are less likely to be tested. Even after a fracture like yours, many never get a bone density scan. Doctors sometimes overlook it in men, and men themselves may not realize they’re at risk. The bones most often aff ected are the hip, spine and wrist, and hip fractures in particular can lead to serious complications and long recoveries. Who is at risk In women, menopause speeds up bone loss. In men, it usually happens more gradually, but age is still a major factor. Your risk rises if you are over 70, thin or underweight, smoke, drink heavily, have a parent with osteoporosis or have already broken a bone, as you have. Certain medical conditions can also increase your risk. These include rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, low testosterone, overactive thyroid, COPD and kidney or liver disease. Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis or a past stroke can raise the risk because they aff ect balance and mobility. Long term use of corticosteroids, some prostate cancer treatments, acid refl ux drugs, antidepressants and anti-seizure medications can weaken bones too. Testing A smart next step is a bone density test. All men 70 and older should talk to their doctor about being screened. Men over 50 who’ve had a fracture or have other risk factors should get tested too. The scan is simple, painless and takes only a few minutes. Medicare and most private insurance plans usually cover it. Prevention When it comes to protecting your bones, the basics really matter. Get enough calcium from foods like low fat milk, yogurt and cheese, leafy green vegetables, beans, almonds and canned salmon or sardines. Men under 70 need about 1,000 milligrams a day. Those 71 and older need 1,200 milligrams. Vitamin D is just as important because it helps your body absorb calcium. Most adults over 50 need 800 to 1,000 international units daily, through sunlight, food or a supplement if needed. Regular weight bearing exercise such as walking, along with strength training two or three times a week, helps build and maintain bone. It also improves balance, which can prevent falls. You should also avoid smoking, and limit alcohol and caff eine. Treatment If testing shows significant bone loss, medications such as Fosamax, Actonel, Reclast, Prolia, Forteo or Tymlos may be prescribed. Your doctor can explain the benefi ts and possible side eff ects and help you decide what is appropriate. Since you have already had a fracture, this is not something to ignore. A simple test and a plan now could help you stay strong and avoid a more serious break down the road. Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070. nr ior OBITUARIES William Thomas “Bill” McGee A lifelong resident of Everett , Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026, at the age of 87, surrounded by the love of his family. Bill proudly served 38 years on the Everett Police Department, attaining the rank of Sergeant. He dedicated his career to protecting and serving the community, but his commitment to Everett extended far beyond his years on the force. He was a devoted public servant whose presence left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He was known for his sharp wit, colorful stories, and ability to make people laugh even during diffi cult times. He possessed an extraordinary gift for connecting with people, whether through a friendly conversation on a front porch, a story shared over coff ee, or a helping hand off ered when someone was in need. His circle of friends extended throughout Everett, Malden, and beyond. Bill never met a stranger. His warmth, generosity, and quick sense of humor made him a friend to many and a trusted presence in the lives of countless people. His home was often a gathering place fi lled with laughter, conversation, and friendship. Above all, Bill’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He was the devoted husband of 62 years to Diana (Baldasare) McGee, loving father to Lorraine McGee and Pamela McGee, and a proud grandfather to Sunil Kumar. He also cherished his role as father-in-law to Rajeev Kumar and treasured every opportunity to spend time with those he loved. Bill was predeceased by his older brother, Paul “Sam” McGee Jr., and his wife, Elaine. He is survived by his younger brother, Robert McGee of Searsport, Maine, and his wife, Claire. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends who will forever remember his kindness, loyalty, and infectious spirit. While his family will always feel the weight of his absence, they will fi nd solace in knowing that his stories, humor, and enduring love will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who knew him. Family and friends are cordially invited to celebrate Bill’s life and honor his memory. Service information will be communicated by the family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Searsport Maine Enhancement Fund. A devoted family man, a resilient and respected police offi cer, loyal friend, and proud son of Everett, Bill McGee leaves behind a legacy that will not be forgotten. Arrangements by the Cafasso & Sons Funeral Home, Everett. Home of the Week Offered at $659,000 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate Formerly Carpenito Real Estate SAUGUS - Welcome Home to 19 Juliette Road – located in desirable Iron Works neighborhood! 7 room 3 bedroom 1 & ½ bath Cape Cod style home. Wellmaintained open concept kitchen features Vinyl flooring and modern appliances with side egress to a porch and deck overlooking the inground pool, yard and driveway. Newly refinished hardwood floors throughout living room and dining area. 2nd floor primary bedroom has wall to wall and a walk-in closet which is above the 1st floor bathroom. Finished heated lower-level family room with ½ bath walks out to the covered patio area, fenced in back yard and pool. Have fun this summer entertaining with a beautiful inground pool and back yard. Home has a new roof in 2025. Newer furnace 2019 and new side steps. Pool liner roughly 2 years old. Located just outside of Saugus Center. (781) 233-7300 335 Central St. Saugus commonmoves.com ©2024 BHH Affiliates, LLC, An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity. Josephine T. Barley O f Everett. Pas se d away at home surrounded by her loving family on June 16th, at 98 years. She was the devoted wife of the late John G. Barley for over 50 beautiful years. Loving mother to and survived by her only daughter OBITUARIES | SEE PAGE 21

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