According to diagnostic testing and research company The Biostation, about 92% of Americans have a vitamin deficiency. About 50% are deficient in vitamins A, C, and magnesium. Meanwhile, 70% of elderly Americans have a vitamin D deficiency.
Failing to meet the nutritional needs of seniors can affect your mood, concentration, mobility, and more. Instead of allowing these changes to your health, consider taking the best vitamins for seniors in their 80s.
Unsure which senior health supplements to add to your routine? Read on to discover the best minerals for seniors today!
Vitamin A is important for:
It helps your organs (including the heart and lungs) function properly. Getting enough vitamin A could lower your risk of macular degeneration, which causes vision loss with age.
Males over 50 require 900 mcg of vitamin A daily, while females require 700 mcg daily. Taking high doses is dangerous, as your liver will store extra vitamin A. Don't exceed the maximum daily dose of 3,000 mcg.
You can add vitamin A to your daily routine through supplements for seniors or foods like:
Most people get enough vitamin A through food. However, patients with celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis may have trouble getting enough vitamin A.
Before adding these supplements for seniors to your routine, consult a doctor. They'll ensure you don't take supplements that may interact with medications you're already taking.
Vitamin B1 plays a part in cardiovascular and nervous system health. Alcoholics and people with diabetes are at a higher risk of vitamin B1 deficiency.
Males over 50 require 1.2 mg daily, while females require 1.1 mg daily. Your body will naturally excrete excess amounts.
Vitamin B2 plays a part in blood cell, skin, eye, and hormone health. It's found in foods like:
Older people and vegetarians or vegans are at a higher risk of a deficiency. Males need 1.3 mg daily, while females need 1.1 mg daily.
Vitamin B3 supports healthy skin, cholesterol levels, and cardiovascular health. It's found in meat, rice, and seeds.
People who are at a higher risk of a vitamin B3 deficiency include those who:
Vitamin B6 supports the blood vessels, heart, and brain cells. It could decrease your risk of some forms of cancer. People at risk of a deficiency include patients with:
Vitamin B12 helps the body create blood cells. It could reduce your risk for some cancers and cardiovascular disease.
According to UCLA Health, the body's ability to absorb B12 declines as we age. Taking ulcer medications and antacids can also interfere with absorption.
Among the best minerals for seniors, calcium is essential for your bones and muscles. It supports healthy:
You can find calcium in dairy products, salmon, and kale. Males need 1,000 mg a day, while females need 1,200 mg a day. Consider starting your day at a senior living community with a glass of milk.
Many antacids contain calcium. You can count these toward your daily intake.
After menopause, women have a higher risk of fragile bones. Consider adding calcium supplements for seniors to your routine to improve your bone health.
Calcium can affect your body's absorption of other medications. Talk to your doctor about these senior health supplements before taking them.
Potential health benefits of vitamins containing vitamin C (ascorbic acid) include:
Males need 90 mg a day, while females need 75 mg daily. Too much vitamin C can cause nausea, cramps, and diarrhea. People who smoke require an extra 35 mg daily.
You can add vitamin C to your diet through fruits and vegetables. These include:
Explore your senior living community's dining program to add these fruits and vegetables to your diet. You can blend fruit together to make a delicious smoothie or enjoy a nutritious side salad.
Our bodies produce vitamin D when we're exposed to sunlight. It plays a part in healthy:
You can find vitamin D in fatty fish like tuna and trout. Our bodies produce less vitamin D as we age, putting seniors at risk for a deficiency. Other risk factors for a deficiency include:
Taking over 100 mcg daily could cause kidney stones and other problems. Aim for 20 to 100 mcg daily.
To meet the nutritional needs of seniors, add potassium to your diet. It supports your kidneys, nervous system, and blood pressure regulation. Potassium is found in:
People who take diuretics or laxatives have a higher risk of low potassium levels. However, high levels can be life-threatening. Consult a doctor before adding potassium supplements to your routine.
Older age and certain medications can affect your body's ability to absorb zinc. Males require 11 mg daily, while females require 8 mg. This mineral plays a part in eye health, thinking and memory, and immunity.
Taking omega-3 fatty acids can support your cardiovascular health and memory. Fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseed are great food sources of fatty acids.
Consult a doctor before adding omega-3 senior health supplements to your routine if you're on blood thinners.
Taking the best vitamins for seniors can benefit your mental and physical well-being. To meet the nutritional needs of seniors, consider adding whole foods to your diet. You can explore your senior living community's dining program to discover delicious options.
Our team at Addington Place of Lee's Summit can help. We provide elevated senior living experiences, resident-focused lifestyle programs, and convenient services.
Our range of amenities is designed to reduce stress. Contact us now to schedule a tour.