Dietary vitamin D intake among elderly residents in a Veterans' Centre

Dietary vitamin D intake was assessed among residents in a long-term care (LTC) facility, so that recommendations could be made about vitamin D supplementation.

Three-day tray audits were completed for all meals and snacks, including nutritional supplements (Boost and/or high-protein pudding). Total daily and three-day vitamin D intake was calculated for each resident, and the total sample was compared with the recommended Adequate Intake (AI) of 600 IU. Vitamin D content was calculated using the Canadian Nutrient File and product labels. Resident charts were reviewed for micronutrient supplements and diagnoses.

The daily average vitamin D available to and consumed by 30 residents was 414 IU and 295 IU, respectively. Those provided with nutritional supplements received an average of 480 IU and consumed 357 IU, while those without received an average of 245 IU and consumed 207 IU. Thirty-three percent of residents were diagnosed with osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and falls and/or fractures. Vitamin D micronutrient supplementation varied from above 600 IU (43%) to below 600 IU (30%) to no supplementation (27%).

None of the study participants met the recommended AI of 600 IU through dietary sources alone. Study results suggest that all LTC residents require vitamin D micronutrient supplementation of at least 400 IU to achieve the recommended AI of 600 IU.