Final answer:
The most serious complication for women with osteoporosis is a hip fracture, which can lead to life-threatening conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and pneumonia.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most serious complication for women with osteoporosis is a hip fracture. Osteoporotic hip fractures can be life-threatening due to the potential for serious complications that arise during the healing process, including deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and pneumonia. These fractures can be particularly dangerous for the elderly due to the increased risk of falls and the reduced ability to recover from injuries. Preventative measures include lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, improving nutrition, and ensuring adequate vitamin D levels to support bone health.