Why Women Should Get a Bone Density Scan Before 65

(And Why I’m Grateful I Didn’t Wait)

Most women are told they don’t need a bone density scan (DXA scan) until age 65. A bone density scan is a quick, non-invasive test that measures bone strength
and helps assess fracture risk. (You can read a simple explanation of what a bone density scan is and what to expect from the Mayo Clinic here)
I believed that guidance too – until I got one at 55. What I learned about my bones shocked me! Despite working out consistently since my 20s,
my scan revealed severe bone loss in both hips and my spine. I was active, fit, and doing “all the right things,” or so I
thought. That single test opened my eyes!

The Problem with Waiting Until 65

Bone loss doesn’t suddenly appear at 65. It begins years and sometimes decades earlier, especially during perimenopause and menopause when estrogen declines. By the time many women are tested:

– Bone loss has already progressed significantly

– Fracture risk is higher

– Options feel more limited

Early testing means early awareness and more choices of what actions can be taken.

But I Exercise… I’ll Be Fine.”
(I Thought So Too.)

Like many women, I assumed my active lifestyle protected me.

– I walked

– I did cardio.

– I stayed lean.

What I was not doing consistently was:

– Progressive strength training

– Bone loading movements

– Impact work appropriate for my body

– Supporting my bones with the right nutrition and recovery

– Etc…

I wasn’t lazy or careless – I was simply focused on the wrong kind of fitness for my body and life stage.

When Medication Is Suggested – and You Want Options

After my results, doctors immediately recommended medication.

Together, we decided on a different first step. We focused on what could be improved naturally and strategically through movement, nutrition, and lifestyle changes while closely monitoring my progress.. This wasn’t about ignoring medical advice. It was about making an informed, empowered choice.

Why This Became More Than a Personal Wake-Up Call

That experience didn’t just change how I trained but inspired me to coach others to help them thrive in the second hand of life through my coaching practice. I am currently in the process of becoming Bone Educated certified, deepening my education in bone density, osteoporosis prevention, and safe, effective strategies for building strength in midlife and beyond. Because women deserve more than “wait and see” or “you’re too young to worry about that.”

Why This Matters for YOU

If you are:

– Over 40

– In perimenopause or menopause

– Active but not strength-training intentionally

– Thin or have a family history of osteoporosis

– On or considering GLP-1 medications

A bone density scan before 65 can give you critical insight, before damage becomes harder to reverse. Knowledge is not scary. Not knowing is!

What I Wish Every Woman Knew

Bone health is not about doing more exercise. It’s about doing the right kind of exercise for your body, hormones, and future. And waiting until 65 may mean missing a powerful window for prevention.

Call to Action

If you have never had a bone density scan or assumed you do not need one yet, this is your sign to start the conversation.

In upcoming posts, I’ll be sharing:

– What I changed in my workouts

– Why cardio alone doesn’t protect bones

– How nutrition, balance, and posture factor into fracture risk

– What women in midlife can do right now to support bone strength

Join my newsletter for trusted guidance on bone health, strength, and helping women over 40 live with strength, vitality, and confidence in the second half.