5 Signs Your Senior Loved One Has a Vitamin D Deficiency
Senior Care in Plano, TX – Watch for these Symptoms of a Vitamin D Deficiency in Your Elderly Loved One
Vitamin D deficiency is very common in senior citizens, and it is a serious health risk you need to be aware of. Here are just a few of the warning signs that your loved one is suffering from this condition.
Muscle Weakness
In senior citizens, there is a very strong link between a lack of vitamin D and weak muscles. Many seniors do not get out in the direct sunlight as much as they once did, and less than optimal intestine absorption is another factor. Symptoms include heaviness in the legs, difficulty standing, and trouble climbing stairs. Make sure your senior has vitamin D supplements on hand to compensate for these factors.
Mood Changes
Vitamin D is also a hormone. After it is absorbed through the skin, it is them rerouted to the kidneys and liver. In the liver and kidneys, vitamin D is converted to a hormone where it helps in keeping bones, muscles, and teeth in excellent condition. It has also been shown to activate genes that affect brain function. Seniors who often complain of being tired and depressed are suffering from a lack of vitamin D.
Weight Gain
Vitamin D in tandem with a hormone called leptin have a role in regulating body weight. Leptin is made in the fat cells of your body and signals the brain when you’re full of food, so you will stop eating. Vitamin D has a vital role in controlling leptin levels in the body, ensuring that the correct signals are sent to the brain. When there is a vitamin D deficiency, signals can be mixed and/or disrupted, and the end result is the body may not know when to stop eating, resulting in weight gain.
Stomach Problems
Vitamin D deficiency is a contributing factor to inflammatory bowel disease. This is a serious and chronic disease that can cause swelling and irritation in the digestive tracts. One of the symptoms is stomach problems such as indigestion and stomach aches.
Fatigue
Seniors with stiff joints and a general feeling of fatigue often have a vitamin D deficiency. An increase in time spent outside in the sun, or an increase in milk products can help solve these symptoms. Other signs of a vitamin D deficiency can include pain in the legs and difficulty in movement.
Vitamin D is critical to good health in seniors, and their bodies need it to function in a proper manner. See that your senior gets some sunlight, especially in the morning hours to start their day. It can not only boost their moods, but it helps them to have stronger bones and healthy digestive tracts. Make certain you know these signs of vitamin D deficiency, and if you have home care services, work with your senior’s caregiver to watch for signs and make changes if necessary.
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If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in Plano, TX and the surrounding areas, contact Approved Home Care at 972-658-4001 today.
