Why Vitamin D is Important for Senior Care in Anderson, IN and the Surrounding Area

We all know that vitamin D is incredibly important for staying healthy, but have you ever been explained why it is so important?

Vitamin D is important for our health because it is an essential nutrient that absorbs calcium in the body while also promoting bone growth. Vitamin D also maintains the health of teeth, muscles, and the immune system. Many times, this vitamin is referred to as the “Sunshine vitamin” because it can be produced from direct sunlight exposure.

Getting a dose of vitamin D in the sunlight isn’t always easy for our elder seniors, especially those who are homebound without the assistance of senior care or family caregivers. When not exposed to enough vitamin D, an individual can be put at risk for vitamin D deficiency. Many seniors suffer from vitamin D deficiency due to not spending enough time outdoors.

Effects of Vitamin D Deficiency in Seniors

Seniors who have a deficiency in vitamin D can experience issues, including:

• Weak muscles and fragile bones
  Osteoporosis (weak muscles, and fragile bones) can be a result of vitamin d deficiency. This can make injuries and fractures from falling more likely and possibly more severe.

• Weakened immune system
  Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a weakened immune system, leaving older adults more open to getting common infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), the flu, or even COVID-19.

• Cognitive impairment and depression
  Emotions and clear thoughts are also products of vitamin D. Lower Vitamin D levels are associated with impaired ability to think as well as increased depression symptoms in the elderly.

• Increased risk of non-infectious disease
  Older adults that experience vitamin d deficiency can have an increased risk for certain diseases, diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even some types of cancer.

How Seniors Can Increase Their Vitamin D Levels

Here are four ways seniors can increase their vitamin D levels to stay healthy:

• Get some sunlight
  The most successful, and easiest, way for individuals to produce vitamin D is through direct sunlight. The Cleveland Clinic reported that 15-20 minutes of sunlight on an individual’s arms and legs a few times a week is usually sufficient. Taking a walk through your neighborhood or local park on a sunny day can provide many benefits—both physically and emotionally. While out on these walks, seniors (or their caregivers) need to mindful of sun exposure—too much sunlight can lead to potential sunburns. While it is important to get out in the sunshine, it is also crucial to not spend an excessive time outside—this is because too much exposure can lead to certain diseases such as skin cancer. With senior care we go on walks with our seniors to make sure they are getting some natural sunlight as needed while also monitoring their skin exposure.

• Sun lamps
  Using sun lamps is a great alternative for those who live in cooler climates with less sunlight. The use of sun lamps can also help regulate sleep for individuals while also reducing the symptoms of seasonal depression. It is important to note that the only sun lamps that produce vitamin D are UVB lamps, which means it is important to consult with a doctor about risks and benefits of these lamps before use. Ideally, it is also important to relay any directions to family or senior care providers.

• Eat well
  Having a well-balanced diet is key; consuming food and beverages that contain vitamin D is not always easy but there are a few foods that offer vitamin D naturally, such as cod liver oil, salmon, mackerel, tuna, beef liver, cheese, and egg yolks. You can also consume drinks and foods that have been fortified with vitamin D, such as milk, breakfast cereals, and fruit juices.  A senior care provider can help keep your loved one’s home stocked with vitamin D rich foods.

• Dietary supplements
  People with vitamin d deficiency can also use dietary supplements to help reach healthy levels. Reports have shown that elder adults that have taken supplements have shown to have less health conditions linked to vitamin d deficiency. It is always important to consult with your physician before starting new supplements to confirm correct dosages. When using a senior care provider, they can make sure correct dosages are taken when needed.

Professional Caregivers Can Help

Following these suggestions can be a lot for a senior and their family members to manage. When that is the case, a Visiting Angels East Central Indiana senior care provider is here to help; caregivers help your loved one follow any suggestions from their doctor to boost vitamin d levels by:

• Stocking the refrigerator and pantry with vitamin D rich foods
• Providing reminders about taking supplementary medications
• Encouraging outdoor activities while preventing overexposure to the sun

If you're interested in more information about how senior care can help your senior loved ones, call 765-703-4194 to schedule a free senior care consultation.