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Vitamin D supplementation may decrease the risk of falls in some older adults

Tan L, He R, Zheng X. Effect of vitamin D, calcium, or combined supplementation on fall prevention: A systematic review and updated network meta-analysis BMC Geriatrics. 2024; 24: 390.

Review question

Are vitamin D, calcium, and combined supplementation effective fall prevention strategies in older adults compared to no treatment or placebo?  

Background

Falls are a common cause of disability and death in older adults. Vitamin D supplementation is used as a strategy for preserving bone health. However, when it comes to fall prevention, previous research on the effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation and optimal dosage has been mixed.   

How the review was done

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of 35 randomized controlled trials. These studies were published between 1996 and 2021 and included a total of 58,937 participants.

Key features of the studies:

  • On average, participants were older adults between the ages of 59 and 89 years old.
  • Participants either took vitamin D or calcium supplementation or a combination of the two. The dose of vitamin D consumed ranged between less than 800 IU to over 1000 IU taken at varying frequencies.
  • Researchers measured the risk of falls.
  • Participants receiving supplementation were compared to control groups receiving no treatment or placebo.      

What the researchers found

The review found that vitamin D supplementation—taken at a dose of 800 -1000 IU per day—may reduce the risk of falls in older adults who are deficient in vitamin D compared to no treatment or placebo. Taking vitamin D alone or with calcium appears to be more effective than taking calcium on its own. In terms of safety, the evidence shows that there may be an increased risk of falls when older adults consume vitamin D supplementation at doses greater than 1000 IU per day. More research is needed to support these findings.  

Conclusion

In vitamin D deficient older adults, vitamin D supplementation at 800 -1000 IU/day may help prevent falls.

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Related Topics

Glossary

Control group
A group that receives either no treatment or a standard treatment.
Meta-analysis
Advanced statistical methods contrasting and combining results from different studies.
Placebo
A harmless, inactive, and simulated treatment.
Randomized controlled trials
Studies where people are assigned to one of the treatments purely by chance.
Systematic review
A comprehensive evaluation of the available research evidence on a particular topic.

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