Fractured neck of femur and vitamin D levels in southern Tasmania

Vestibular dysfunction in vitamin D receptor mutant mice

“…In line with this, association between vitamin D and muscle strength [31], muscular/motor impairments have been suggested in VDR−/− mice [28,32]. Normal motor coordination requires balance and equilibrium [33], and poor balance is one of the main causes of falling, especially in elderly people.…”

Global vitamin D status and determinants of hypovitaminosis D

“…In a prospective study evaluating prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in older people in residential aged-care facilities in the northern Sydney area, vitamin D deficiency (serum 25 (OH)D <28 nmol/L) was present in 68% of men and 86% of women, with a mean serum 25(OH)D level of 17 nmol/L [129]. A case series of elderly patients (mean age 81 years) admitted with a hip fracture to Royal Hobart Hospital, Tasmania, found vitamin D deficiency (<28 nmol/L) in 67% [130]. Importantly, community-dwelling elderly are at risk as well.…”

Hypovitaminosis D in Older Adults

“…Older adults in residential care in Europe, Australia and North America have even higher rates of deficiency (as many as 80-100% of residents deficient) and usually more severe deficiency [7][8][9][10]. Highrisk disease groups include those with dementia [11,12], Parkinson's disease [13], falls [14], and fractures [15][16][17]. It is important to emphasise that the problem is not only confined to the very elderly.…”