* At this age, jarring, high-impact exercises should be replaced with those that will offer better balance, alignment and movement. Tai chi, yoga, ballroom dancing and water aerobics fit the bill.
* While Black women are generally less likely to develop osteoporosis, we're not immune to loss in bone density. Getting sufficient calcium (1,200 milligrams a day for seniors) and vitamin D helps stop bone decline, which accelerates after menopause. Estrogen is often administered to increase bone density. If a doctor does not recommend estrogen for a particular patient, calcitonin, a hormone that influences bone metabolism, might be the answer.
* Dentures must fit properly so that chewing isn't a chore and poor digestion doesn't become a problem.
