VISITING ANGELS MCKINNEY, TX 214-491-1999
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The Importance of Vitamin D for Seniors in McKinney, TX, and Nearby Areas

The aging process can cause a variety of physical and cognitive effects for adults over the age of 65. Muscle weakness, decreased bone density, a weakened immune system, and memory issues are just some of the issues that elderly adults may experience as they age. There are many solutions to help seniors to help seniors keep up their strength and stay healthy. One effective method is increasing their vitamin D intake, as it helps the body absorb calcium and promotes bone growth.

However, some seniors may not be focusing on making sure they have enough vitamin D. This is particularly true for homebound seniors who don’t spend a lot of time outdoors and seniors who don’t typically eat food that is rich in vitamin D.

If you’re worried about your senior loved one’s health and vitamin D deficiency, consider hiring a professional caregiver from Visiting Angels McKinney. Our home care services include meal preparation, medication reminders, encouraging clients to incorporate light exercise and outdoor activity into their everyday routine, and so much more. Since 2008, we’ve been helping older adults in McKinney, Allen, Frisco, Prosper and surrounding communities in Collin County, TX, age in place safely and comfortably.

How Can Vitamin D Deficiency Impact Seniors in and Around McKinney?

Not getting enough vitamin D can be detrimental to a senior’s health and well-being. Here are some issues that can be caused by a vitamin D deficiency:

Muscle and Bone Weakness

Since vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium (which helps promote bone density), not getting enough vitamin D can weaken a senior’s muscles and bones. This can make a senior more prone to developing osteoporosis and more likely to become severely injured if they were to accidentally fall.

Weakened Immune System

Not getting enough vitamin D can weaken a senior’s immune system and increase the likelihood of getting sick from common infections, such as the flu. This can also negatively impact their ability to recover from these illnesses and may increase the likelihood of needing to be hospitalized.

Increased Likelihood of Chronic Conditions

Seniors with a vitamin D deficiency can also make them more prone to developing a chronic illness, such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes. It can also make it more difficult for seniors to manage symptoms of these conditions and lower their quality of life.

Cognitive and Mental Health Issues

Vitamin D not only helps seniors maintain bone density, but also helps them regulate emotions and think clearly. A vitamin D deficiency can impact a senior’s ability to think and increase their likelihood of developing depression.

How Can Seniors in McKinney and Nearby Areas Increase Their Vitamin D Levels?

Here are some simple ways that seniors in McKinney, Allen, Frisco, Prosper can increase their vitamin D intake:

Spending Time in the Sun

Did you know that vitamin D is often called the “sunshine vitamin”? That’s because it’s produced naturally in the body via sunlight exposure. The Cleveland Clinic recommends 15 to 20 minutes outside a few times in order to get enough direct sunlight on the arms and legs. Seniors don’t even have to exert themselves to get enough sunlight. Even activities as simple as a stroll through the park can help seniors get vitamin D through sunlight.

Eating Vitamin D-Rich Foods

Be sure to give your senior loved one vitamin D-rich foods and drinks. There aren't a ton of natural food sources for vitamin D, but you can get it from things like cod liver oil, salmon, mackerel, tuna, beef liver, cheese, and egg yolks. Milk, breakfast cereals, and fruit juices are just some of the many foods and beverages that have been fortified with vitamin D.

Sun Lamps

When the sun is weak in the winter, sun lamps can be a good alternative for seniors who need more vitamin D. The use of a sun lamp has been linked to improved sleep patterns and a decrease in seasonal depression. Consult with your loved one's physician about the potential risks and benefits of using sun lamps (only those that emit UVB light can aid in vitamin D production).

Dietary Supplements

Seniors who don't get enough vitamin D can get to a healthy level with the help of dietary supplements. According to studies, elderly people who take these supplements significantly reduce their risk of developing vitamin D deficiency-related diseases. Check to see that your loved one is taking the right dose. If your loved one needs to take supplements, consult with their doctor first to determine the best dosage.

How Home Care from Visiting Angels McKinney Can Help

At Visiting Angels McKinney, our in-home caregivers can help your loved one increase their vitamin D intake in the following ways:

  • Setting up a sun lamp and reminding your loved one to turn it off and on when needed
  • Shopping for vitamin D-rich groceries

Unlike other local home care agencies in Collin County, Visiting Angels McKinney personalizes the in-home care our clients receive. That means when you work with us, we will provide the care your loved one needs on their terms so they can enjoy their everyday routine. Whether your loved one needs a caregiver to join them on a walk through the neighborhood during the daytime or a caregiver to grab them a glass of milk before they go to sleep for the night, you can count on Visiting Angels to help your loved one get enough vitamin D and make aging in place an enjoyable experience.

Call our McKinney, TX, office at 214-491-1999 to schedule a free in-home consultation today!

Serving McKinney, Allen, Frisco, Prosper and Other Communities in Collin County, TX

Visiting Angels MCKINNEY, TX
4500 Eldorado Pkwy #1500
McKinney, TX 75070
Phone: 214-491-1999
Fax: 469-519-7897
021334

Serving McKinney, Allen, Frisco, Prosper and Other Communities in Collin County, TX

Visiting Angels MCKINNEY, TX
4500 Eldorado Pkwy #1500
McKinney, TX 75070
Phone: 214-491-1999
Fax: 469-519-7897
021334