Vitamin D deficiency in older adults often shows up through a variety of symptoms that affect bones, muscles, the immune system, and mood. One of the most common signs is **muscle weakness**, which can increase the risk of falls and injuries. This happens because vitamin D is essential for muscle strength and function. Older adults may also experience **bone pain or aching joints**, as vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones. Without enough vitamin D, bones can become soft or brittle, leading to conditions like osteomalacia or osteoporosis, which increase the risk of fractures[1][2][3][4].
Another important symptom is **fatigue** or feeling unusually tired. This can be subtle and often mistaken for normal aging or other health issues, but it is a common sign of low vitamin D levels. Alongside fatigue, some older adults may notice **mood changes**, such as feelings of depression or low mood, since vitamin D also plays a role in brain health and regulating mood[1][2][3][4].
Vitamin D deficiency can also weaken the immune system, making older adults more prone to **frequent infections** like colds or respiratory illnesses. This is because vitamin D supports immune function, helping the body fight off viruses and bacteria[1][2][4].
In some cases, older adults might experience **difficulty concentrating or “brain fog”**, which can affect memory and cognitive function. This symptom is less obvious but can impact daily life and independence[4].
Because these symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for other conditions, vitamin D deficiency often goes undiagnosed in older adults. A blood test measuring 25-hydroxyvitamin D is the best way to confirm if someone has low vitamin D levels[1][4].
Sources
https://www.medicaldaily.com/vitamin-deficiency-symptoms-you-cant-ignore-what-vitamin-d-b12-deficiency-reveal-about-your-473933
https://www.the-independent.com/health-and-fitness/vitamin-d-deficiency-symptoms-anxiety-depression-b2862635.html
https://thedacare.org/the-d-list-answering-vitamin-d-faqs/
https://coreprescribingsolutions.co.uk/vitamin-d-deficiency/
