Vitamin D in the elderly

Prevalence studies have demonstrated that vitamin D deficiency is widespread among the older population worldwide. While the effects of inadequate levels of vitamin D on calcium metabolism and the development of osteoporosis are well known among health care providers, there is mounting evidence for other consequences of a lack of this vitamin on the health of the elderly. Studies have shown that insufficient levels of vitamin D are associated with functional disability and falls at an advanced age. Vitamin D insufficiency is correlated with the development of cancer, especially of the colon, prostate, breast and lymphoma. Further, lower levels of vitamin D are also associated with the development of cognitive changes, cardiovascular disease and mortality. In this chapter we will discuss the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in the elderly, describe the negative effects of a lack of this vitamin on the health of older people, and relate to the possible beneficial effects of vitamin D supplementation in the older population.