Regular sun exposure to the skin to maintain normal levels of vitamin D in the body helps prevent falls and fractures in the elderly, especially among men.

It has long been known that sunlight and vitamin D are necessary to maintain our physical strength and cognitive abilities. Vitamin D is formed in the skin after direct exposure to sunlight. With age, the skin has fewer opportunities for vitamin synthesis. In addition, many elderly people spend more time in enclosed spaces due to physical weakness, immobility or illness and can not be regularly exposed to ultraviolet radiation.

Australian doctors Neuroscience Research Australia examined the relationship between vitamin D levels and falls among people aged 70-90 years.

Approximately one third of survey participants were deficient in "solar vitamin", and also had a slow reaction, poor balance of movements and worse mental abilities. Among men, vitamin deficiency was most often associated with the incidence of falls and fractures. Doctors advise older people to visit the sun more often in non-hot weather or take vitamin D supplements to protect themselves from weakening joints. According to experts, people should be in the sun for a few minutes most days of the week in summer, and in winter for 2-3 hours per week.

News. Gradusnik. En.

Keywords:.