Vitamin D Deficiency in Welfare Institutions for the Aged

Abstract
Serum concentrations of 25-OH-D [25-hydroxyvitamin D] in 47 elderly people (70-94 yr old) living in homes for the aged were lower than those in a matched control group living in their homes. No differences between the groups were noted in serum ionized Ca, alkaline phosphatase, Pi, Mg or parathyroid hormone. The low serum concentration of 25-OH-D may be due to less outdoor activity and/or a smaller dietary vitamin D intake in the institutionalized group. The importance of preserving an adequate vitamin D status in geriatric patients is emphasized.