Over 65s Should Take High Dose Vitamin D to Prevent Falls
1st November 2009
A daily supplement of vitamin D at a dose of 700-1000 IU reduces the risk of falling among older people by 19% according to a recently published study in the British Medical Journal.
Each and every year, one in three (33%) people aged 65 and older experience at least one fall; with 9% ending in an emergency room visit and around 6% result in a fracture. Possibly the worst outcome, a hip fracture, is associated with a 15-20% rate of mortality and greater than 50% long-term mobility limitations.
Australia’s baby boomer population continues to age and fall prevention has therefore become a significant public health goal. Especially if we look at the bigger picture and consider the secondary outcomes. Along with physical injury a fall can lead to "post-fall syndrome", a syndrome characterised by a loss of confidence, hesitancy and tentativeness with resultant loss of mobility and independence.
Recently, researchers analysed the results of eight fall prevention trials to assess the effectiveness of vitamin D in preventing falls among older individuals (aged 65 and over). What they found showed that benefit from supplemental vitamin D on fall prevention depended on treatment dose and achieved serum concentrations.
A dose of 700-1000 IU supplemental vitamin D per day (vitamin D2 or vitamin D3) reduced falls by 19% and up to 26% in the D3 group. The effect was seen within two to five months of starting treatment and the benefit was sustained for up to 36 months.
Supplemental vitamin D did not reduce falls at a dose of less than 700 IU per day and the study’s authors recommend a daily intake of at least 700-1000 IU supplemental vitamin D is warranted in all individuals aged 65 and older, to help reduce the risk of falling.
References available on request.
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