Fall Prevention and Vitamin D in the Elderly: An Overview of the Key Role of the Non-bone Effects

Authors

Cedric Annweiler, University of Angers, Angers, France
Manuel Montero-Odasso, The University of Western Ontario
Anne M. Schott, University of Lyon, Lyon, France
Gilles Berrut, University of Nantes, Nantes, France
Bruno Fantino, University of Angers, Angers, France
Olivier Beauchet, University of Angers, Angers, France

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

10-11-2010

Journal

Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation

Volume

7

Issue

50

URL with Digital Object Identifier

http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/1743-0003-7-50

Abstract

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.