Research has connected vitamin D deficiency in the elderly with an increased risk of dementia due to Alzheimer’s or other diseases. Vitamin D deficiency has also been associated with vascular dysfunction and brain atrophy. A Chilean experiment showed that providing Vitamin D supplements improved balance and mobility in elderly.
Though we still do not know the actual cause of diseases like Alzheimer’s that cause dementia, we should heed the results of such research. Vitamin D deficiencies can mostly be addressed easily.
Getting enough sunlight is important. A stroll outdoors can provide both exercise to boost your circulation and sunlight to give you Vitamin D. People who remain indoors due to disability, age or apathy may not be receiving enough sunlight. Asking a doctor to provide Vitamin D supplements may help in these conditions. So be sure you and your loved ones get the required dose of Vitamin D, through sunshine or a supplement.
Sources:
Experimental Gerontology, Volume 41, Issue 8, August 2006
http://www.neurology.org/content/early/2014/08/06/WNL.0000000000000755.full.html
Though we still do not know the actual cause of diseases like Alzheimer’s that cause dementia, we should heed the results of such research. Vitamin D deficiencies can mostly be addressed easily.
Getting enough sunlight is important. A stroll outdoors can provide both exercise to boost your circulation and sunlight to give you Vitamin D. People who remain indoors due to disability, age or apathy may not be receiving enough sunlight. Asking a doctor to provide Vitamin D supplements may help in these conditions. So be sure you and your loved ones get the required dose of Vitamin D, through sunshine or a supplement.
Sources:
Experimental Gerontology, Volume 41, Issue 8, August 2006
http://www.neurology.org/content/early/2014/08/06/WNL.0000000000000755.full.html
