Vitamin D deficiency common in older adults

Vitamin D deficiency is incredibly common in older adults and can lead to other health complications if not treated.

Cheryl Wilson, head clinician at the Nutrition Coach clinic, explained: "Vitamin D is quite common to be low because if older people are less active, and spending less time outdoors, then they don't tend to get as much sunlight exposure."

As vitamin D intake isn't something that can be increased via diet, many GPs recommend supplementation if someone is found to be deficient.

However, to protect against this eventuality it is important to get at least 20 minutes of sunlight exposure most days on the arms and legs.

Should an older adult develop a vitamin D deficiency, they are at an increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment and cancer.

If a person suspects they are lacking in vitamin D, they must seek a doctor as soon as possible, especially if experiencing bone pain, muscle weakness and tiredness.

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