The role of vitamin D uptake in older persons with special reference to its role in COVID-19

Abstract:

Vitamin D deficiency is a global epidemic that has come to the attention of the scientific community and general public as a result of the COVID-19 epidemic. Persons of older age, in particular those at high risk of vitamin D deficiency, and those who are institutionalized, or other older people who spend most of their time in inside and are less mobile, are at particular risk of vitamin D deficiency. Unfortunately, this is the daily reality of many older people, and this was particularly pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The basic and most well-known role of vitamin D is its function in bone metabolism and the regulation of calcium and phosphorus homeostasis. The most interesting annual effects of vitamin D are on the functions of the immune, endocrine, cardiovascular and neurological systems. The increased status of 25-OH vitamin D is recommended in populations at high risk (especially older patients). Vitamin D supplementation may be considered in risk groups with various comorbidities, given that it is relatively effective, safe and widely available both as a medicine, food for special medical needs or as a dietary supplement. The daily vitamin D intake requirements are certainly twice as high for the older population, who should take up to 800 IU of vitamin D daily. Along with a moderate sun exposure, it is necessary to recommend food rich in or enriched with vitamin D and preparations with additional vitamin D.

Key words:
ageing; COVID-19; osteoporosis; sarcopenia; vitamin D