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Vitamin D and physical performance in elderly subjects: the Pro.V.A study
Elena D Toffanello1, Egle Perissinotto, Giuseppe Sergi
1Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Geriatrics Division, University of Padova, Padova, Italy. elenadebora.toffanello@sanita.padova.it
Plos One
|April 28, 2012
Summary
Higher Vitamin D levels (25-hydroxyvitamin D) are linked to better physical function in older adults. Maintaining levels around 100 nmol/L may optimize strength, coordination, and aerobic capacity.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Nutritional Science
- Musculoskeletal Health
Background:
- The relationship between Vitamin D status and physical performance in the elderly remains debated.
- Investigating the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) and physical capabilities in older adults is crucial for public health.
- This study addresses the controversial role of Vitamin D in maintaining musculoskeletal functionality in aging populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the correlation between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) concentrations and various physical performance metrics in elderly individuals.
- To determine if Vitamin D levels influence measures of strength, gait, and endurance in older adults.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for Vitamin D supplementation to support physical function in the elderly.
Main Methods:
- Included 2694 community-dwelling elderly participants from the Progetto Veneto Anziani (Pro.V.A.) study.
- Assessed physical performance using tests such as the 5 timed chair stands (TCS), gait speed, 6-minute walking (6 mW) distance, handgrip strength, and quadriceps strength.
- Employed general linear models and loess plots, analyzing gender-specific associations between serum 25OHD levels and performance, while controlling for confounders.
Main Results:
- Significant linear associations were found between 25OHD levels and TCS, gait speed, 6 mW distance, and handgrip strength.
- Adjusted analyses confirmed these associations, particularly for 6 mW distance in both genders, TCS in women, and gait speed and handgrip strength in men.
- Performance improvements in TCS, gait speed, handgrip strength, and 6 mW distance were observed with increasing 25OHD levels, notably between 20 and 100 nmol/L.
Conclusions:
- Lower serum 25OHD levels correlate with diminished coordination, reduced strength (TCS), slower walking, lower upper limb strength in men, and decreased aerobic capacity (6 mW) in both genders.
- Serum 25OHD concentrations of 100 nmol/L appear optimal for physical performance in elderly men and women.
- Encouraging Vitamin D supplementation to maintain 25OHD levels above this threshold is recommended for preserving physical function in older adults.
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