title: The prevention of vitamin D deficiency in the elderly.
abstract: Vitamin D deficiency is common in the house-bound and institutionalised elderly population of Britain. A study of patients over 65 years discharged with a diagnosis of osteomalacia from Greater Glasgow Health Board hospitals between 1970 and 1981 inclusive showed a low incidence in the 65 to 74 years age group but a steeply rising incidence in older age groups. The majority (83%) of patients were female. The fortification of margarine, butter and milk with concentrations of vitamin D acceptable to the general population does not produce significant elevations in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) levels in vitamin D-deficient elderly patients. Low intensity background ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and intermittent high intensity UVR produce significant elevations in serum 25-OHD levels in elderly patients but both methods have disadvantages which limit their widespread use. Vitamin D supplements equivalent to 10 micrograms daily produce significant elevations in serum 25-OHD levels in vitamin D-deficient elderly patients. A vitamin D supplement policy for the housebound and institutionalised elderly population of Britain is required.
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002112:Calcifediol / Q000097:blood; D005260:Female; D005527:Food, Fortified; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010018:Osteomalacia / Q000209:etiology; D014467:Ultraviolet Therapy; D014807:Vitamin D / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D014808:Vitamin D Deficiency / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000628:therapy
chemical_list: D014807:Vitamin D; D002112:Calcifediol