[Vitamin D - a geriatric point of view].

Elderly people more often suffer from vitamin D insufficiency. It is caused by insufficient supply with diet and scarce sun exposure, due to life style. This is a very common situation in Poland and worldwide. Vitamin D influences functioning of many various organs. Its deficiency may cause bone mineralization disorders, osteomalacia, osteoporosis, muscle weakening, which can result in higher risk of falls. Its influence on cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and cognitive functions is widely discussed. Supplementation is crucial in elderly population. It should be administrated all year, with adjustement of dose to age and weight. Initial blood concentration is not required. An appropriate sun exposure is recommended. Treatment of vitamin D deficiency should be intensive and last for several months. Although the doses are high, no adverse effects were observed.