Vitamin D and Old People

Two studies published in the Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences found a correlation between low levels of vitamin D and dementias and/or Alzheimer's in older women. Vitamin D can be gotten from sunshine, oily fish, and supplements. The women may have had low vitamin D from not getting outside due to lack of mobility. Lack of mobility has also been shown to increase the risk for dementia. It becomes a chicken and egg question. While it wouldn't hurt to supplement an older person's diet with vitamin D, and highly likely would be beneficial, I'm not entirely convinced it alone would improve dementia. It would have to be part of a comprehensive program including both mental and physical exercise, along with a good diet. 

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