Vitamin D supplements could help reduce falls in homebound elderly

http://ekaweb01.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2015-08/wfbm-vds081715.php

Public Release: 17-Aug-2015
Vitamin D supplements could help reduce falls in homebound elderly
Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center

Every year falls affect approximately one in three older adults living at home, with approximately one in 10 falls resulting in serious injury. Even if an injury does not occur, the fear of falling can lead to reduced activity and a loss of independence.

Research has shown that vitamin D plays a key role in maintaining muscle integrity and strength and some studies suggest vitamin D may reduce the risk of falls.

Homebound elderly, a generally vulnerable population due to poor dietary intake and nutrition-related health conditions as well as decreased exposure to sunlight, are at increased risk for low vitamin D levels, possibly leading to more falls.

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