According to new research by Osteoporosis Canada, current recommendations for an "adequate intake" and "tolerable upper level" for vitamin D are more than 10 years old. An article published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal also says the recommendations "were not based on properly conducted dose-finding studies."
Vitamin D is essential to prevent osteoporosis and can reduce other health risks like diabetes and immune system disorders. The new guidelines suggest health adults under age 50 should take a vitamin D supplement between 400-1000 IU. It is now recommended that people over 50 take a supplement between 800 and 2,000 IU.
A recent international study found that older people with a vitamin D deficiency suffer from more cognitive troubles which are earning warning signs of dementia.
Vitamin D supplements for the elderly are not only a good idea to combat dementia, they have been shown to help prevent to reduce the risk of falls and fractures.