The last two posts have been about preventing falls in the Elderly. The next few articles will be on how to reduce the probability of breaking your bones in spite of a fall, Strengthening Your Bones to Prevent Fractures. The Power of Calcium: Building and Maintaining Strong Bones Calcium is the foundation of strong bones and teeth. Over 99% of this crucial mineral resides within these structures, providing them with density and structural integrity. But calcium's magic extends beyond the skeletal system, playing a vital role in muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. Meeting Your Calcium Needs: The amount of calcium needed varies throughout life, with specific recommendations for different age groups: Infants (0-12 months): 200-275 mg/day Children (1-3 years): 700 mg/day Children (4-8 years): 1,000 mg/day Children and adolescents (9-18 years): 1,300 mg/day Adults (19-50 years): 1,000 mg/day Adults (51+ years): 1,200 mg/day (especially w...