ALCOHOLISM AND THE ELDERLYAlcoholism and the elderly are often linked to brittle bones, fractures and osteoporosis. Both the alcohol and age are working to erode bone health.
CALCIUM SUPPLEMENTS AND THE ELDERLY Adequate intake and absorption of calcium and vitamin D are essential for healthy bones. But getting sufficient amounts of essential vitamins and minerals can be difficult as we age and be further compromised by excessive alcohol. The physical effects of alcoholism can include the following:
VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY AMONGST THE ELDERLY Vitamin D is essential for bone health and can increase calcium absorption by as much as 70%. But Vitamin D deficiency is common among people who are elderly, institutionalized or hospitalized. In the United States, 60% of nursing home residents and 57% of hospitalized patients have been found to be vitamin D deficient.Most experts believe that the recommended daily intake (RDI) for vitamin D is inadequate and that the vitamin D dosage for people in northern regions (north of Boston, Rome and Beijing) should be increased to 5,000 IU daily. Getting sufficient vitamin D is essential for all of us-but especially for anyone dealing with alcoholism and the elderly.
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