Vitamin D Deficiency in Seniors: What’s it Taking from You?

According to the National Council of Aging (NCOA), 1/3 of all Americans over the age of 65 fall each year.  In fact, falls are the most common reason for senior admission to the hospital. But don’t worry, Vitamin D can help prevent falls.

Continue reading to learn more about Vitamin D deficiency in seniors and what you can do about it. 

Getting the right amount of Vitamin D will help you preserve your independence.

Many studies indicate that Vitamin D plays an integral role in your body because it helps your body retain muscle mass. With more muscle mass, you are able to do more for yourself, and for a longer period of time. This assures that you stay out of assisted care facilities for long as possible. Don’t let Vitamin D deficiency steal your independence.

Did you know that Vitamin D is highly connected to mood? Vitamin D deficiency affects you both physically and mentally. 

Vitamin D is critical for smooth psychological operations due to the amount of receptors all over your body, including the brain. Lower levels of Vitamin D lead to a higher likelihood of depression.

Sometimes we forget that emotional health is equally as important as physical health. Get your daily dose of Vitamin D—staying happy is part of staying healthy.

It’s common for even the most active of seniors to see a decline in muscle strength. For seniors who have a Vitamin D deficiency, the health risks are even greater. Studies show that a Vitamin D deficiency in seniors is highly correlated with falls.

Imagine you’re happily walking down the stairs to sit in your favorite reclining chair when all of a sudden - you slip and fall. Fortunately, you have Alert1’s Home Fall Detection.  Thanks to your medical alert, your fall was detected and help was on the way within minutes.

At the hospital, the doctors inform you that you’ve fractured your wrist due to a Vitamin D deficiency. But the good news is, with some rest, you will be fine. The bad news is the treatment won’t be covered by insurance.

This has led to a pretty hefty medical bill. Vitamin D deficiency didn’t just hurt your wrist, but it’s also going to hurt your wallet. Keep your levels of Vitamin D up and keep your money.

A lack of Vitamin D is a common cause of osteoporosis – a medical condition characterized by fragile and porous bones due to loss of tissue over time.

Little do people know, osteoporosis is the cause of 9 million bone fractures each year. This means there is a fracture every 3 seconds. Those with osteoporosis suffer many problems. Some of these complexities are loss of height due to spinal curving, and fractures due to minor falls. Prevent your risk of osteoporosis by getting enough Vitamin D.

Now that you know how the deficiency affects you, read these tips for improving your levels of Vitamin D.

Get more sun. Absorbing some sunlight means you are getting Vitamin D. Walking is great way to get some sun, exercise, and catch up with your loved ones. Take a 20 to 30-minute walk around the block with your neighbor, daughter, son, or friend. While you’re on your walk, make sure you stay safe by popping on your medical ID bracelet. That way, if anything happens, first responders know exactly how to treat you.

Eat more fish. Fatty fish are a great source of Vitamin D, and they taste delicious! Some go-to options are tuna, salmon, trout, and eel. All these fish are high in Vitamin D and perfect for the avid sushi lover.

Drink fortified milk. A glass a day keeps the doctor away. An 8-ounce glass of fortified milk is great for extra Vitamin D. The process of fortification ensures the milk has extra Vitamin D. Like cold treats? Try a cup of fortified yogurt instead.

Lactose intolerant? No problem. Drink lactose-free milk or fortified orange juice. Fortified orange juice can also help you get that extra Vitamin D boost.

Take supplements. Try taking Vitamin D supplements as an easy way to get some more Vitamin D in your system. Keep in mind that you should always talk to a doctor first before taking any supplements. 

As we get older, taking extra care of our health becomes especially important. Maintaining strong bones and muscles are imperative to our quality of life. They are the key to living a longer, happier, and more independent lifestyle. We may not be as young as we used to be, but luckily Vitamin D can help us feel younger.

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