STATUS OF VITAMIN D AMONG OLDER ADULTS IN THE NURSING HOME "PODGORICA"
Keywords:
vitamin D, older adults, vitamin D supplementation, nursing home, geriatricsAbstract
The aim of this study was to analyze vitamin D status among residents of the “Podgorica” Nursing Home in relation to sex and age.
The study included residents of the Nursing Home “Podgorica” who had serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH vitamin D) measured during the study period. A total of 76 residents were included. Both male and female participants of different ages were analyzed, regardless of their department of residence. The analysis was conducted according to sex, age groups, and vitamin D supplementation.
The mean serum vitamin D concentration was 49.7 ng/mL. Vitamin D deficiency (<30 ng/mL) was found in 32.9% of participants, insufficient levels (30–50 ng/mL) in 27.6%, and optimal concentrations (>50 ng/mL) in 39.5%. More than half of the residents had deficient or insufficient vitamin D levels. Female residents and older individuals more frequently exhibited lower vitamin D concentrations. A trend of decreasing vitamin D levels with increasing age was observed. Residents who used vitamin D supplements had higher mean values and a greater proportion of optimal concentrations compared with those not receiving supplementation.
Sex, age, and supplementation significantly influence vitamin D status among nursing home residents. Regular screening and controlled vitamin D supplementation are necessary, particularly for the oldest residents and women.
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