[Determinants of vitamin D supplement use among community-dwelling older adults]

We estimated the prevalence of vitamin D supplement use and determinants of vitamin D use in community-dwelling adults≥70 year.

In April 2013, in multiple cities in the Netherlands we determined the use of vitamin D supplements among 215 community-dwelling older adults. The questionnaire consisted of questions about demographics, knowledge about vitamin D, vitamin D use and reasons for (not) using vitamin D supplements. Vitamin D use is defined as self-reported vitamin D during at least part of the year.

The mean age was 79±6.5 year and 63% was female. Self-reported -vitamin D supplement use was 28% among free-living older adults. Only 11 individuals (5%) used vitamin D as advised by the Dutch Health Council (20 µg per day). Logistic regression analyses indicated that women, adults with a higher education level and adults with multiple vitamin D related disorders/fractures were more prevalent vitamin D users.

Despite the advice of the Dutch Health Council, the use of vitamin D supplements among free-living older adults≥70 year is very low. Older adults are not convinced of the benefits of using vitamin D supplements. The general practitioner could play a crucial role in providing information about vitamin D supplementation among older adults.