8 Major Benefits of Vitamin D for Seniors

According to the experts in our independent living and retirement community, vitamin D is essential for healthy aging. However, many seniors do not get enough of it, which causes the deficiency of this nutrient. This leads to nausea, bone softening, frailty, and cognitive difficulties. To avoid these health problems, you should ensure you get enough vitamin D as you age. If you suspect you have a deficiency, it is wise to talk to your doctor about getting a blood test to check the level. They will help you determine the best way to improve it if necessary.

Read on to learn about the benefits of vitamin D for seniors and the common sources so you can avoid complications and lead a healthy life in your senior years.

8 Advantages of Vitamin D in Your Senior Years

Helps Manage Seasonal Depression

Although the impact of vitamin D in managing clinical depression is unclear, researchers think that a person’s vitamin D level may help prevent it. People with seasonal affective disorder tend to produce less vitamin D, affecting the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is the feel-good hormone. The brain pumps it out when you eat some chocolate, go for a long run, or spend time with the person you love. When the serotonin level is not as required, you could be more at risk for mood disorders. Healthcare providers often prescribe vitamin D supplements to help treat this condition.

Vitamin D Promotes Bone Health

Osteoporosis is a common condition in seniors that weakens the bones and makes them brittle. It carries serious health risks that may lead to falls and other dangerous safety situations. There is a clear connection between vitamin D and bone health because it helps you defend against bone softening in your senior years. Healthcare providers often recommend pairing the recommended vitamin D dosage with calcium for added effectiveness.

Safeguards Against Chronic Diseases

Regular intake of Vitamin D is an excellent way to be proactive about your health, especially if you are over 60 years old. It is an essential nutrient that acts as a preventive treatment for many chronic conditions and ensures your immune system is healthy enough to defeat common illnesses. Studies show that taking adequate doses of vitamin D can help manage immune cells and may also reduce mortality among cancer patients.

Protects Against Respiratory Infections

It helps to know that having enough vitamin D levels reduces the chances of respiratory infections, including the flu and colds. Studies show that a vitamin D supplement lowers the risk of breathing disorders.

Help Prevent Cognitive Decline and Dementia

Some studies indicate that brain tissue has vitamin D receptors, affecting cognitive function. This is why vitamin D may help reduce the risk of dementia.

May Help Reduce Parkinson’s Risks

Parkinson’s disease is more common among seniors and occurs when neurons in the brain deteriorate, causing rigidity and muscle tremors. Research indicates that getting the recommended vitamin D dosage may help lower their risk of Parkinson’s. Moreover, it may also help alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson’s after diagnosis.

Protect Oral Health with Vitamin D

Aging often makes dental care more difficult to manage because of the increased chances of tooth decay and gum disease. Vitamin D is known to provide a strong defense by lowering the risk of contracting oral-health diseases.

Other Benefits

How Can Seniors Get Enough Vitamin D?

When it comes to the correct vitamin D levels for seniors, it helps to know that the dosage recommendations increase after 70 years. It is best to ensure you get around 20 micrograms of vitamin D if you are over seventy. This is because you may need more quantities of this nutrient to manage the higher risk for conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis.

Highly absorbable sources of vitamin D in pill and liquid form are also available at local health food stores. It is best to consult a professional to rule out health risks and medication interactions before taking any vitamin D supplements beyond the natural sources available to you.

Join Our Retirement Community and Enjoy a Healthy Life

The Holiday Retirement offers excellent independent living options for seniors looking to have a comfortable life after retirement. We place the utmost importance on our residents’ safety, convenience, and comfort. Our friendly and caring staff will cater to your needs and ensure you have everything for a relaxed, worry-free life.

Our retirement community welcomes seniors who need little assistance with household chores and prefer to enjoy an independent lifestyle. We will treat you with the respect, dignity, and love you deserve and ensure you feel at home.

If you want more details about our retirement community, feel free to call us at 1-860-233-8202. You could also fill out our online contact form to schedule a tour of our facility in West Hartford. We’ll be happy to show you around and help you understand how we can assist you.