Fall prevention and vitamin D in the elderly: an overview of the key role of the non-bone effects

• Main Authors: Fantino Bruno, Berrut Gilles, Schott Anne M, Montero-Odasso Manuel, Annweiler Cedric, Beauchet Olivier
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2010-10-01
• Series: Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation
• Online Access: http://www.jneuroengrehab.com/content/7/1/50

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Preventing falls and fall-related fractures in the elderly is an objective yet to be reached. There is increasing evidence that a supplementation of vitamin D and/or of calcium may reduce the fall and fracture rates. A vitamin D-calcium supplement appears to have a high potential due to its simple application and its low cost. However, published studies have shown conflicting results as some studies failed to show any effect, while others reported a significant decrease of falls and fractures. Through a 15-year literature overview, and after a brief reminder on mechanism of falls in older adults, we reported evidences for a vitamin D action on postural adaptations - i.e., muscles and central nervous system - which may explain the decreased fall and bone fracture rates and we underlined the reasons for differences and controversies between published data. Vitamin D supplementation should thus be integrated into primary and secondary fall prevention strategies in older adults.</p>