Living a long and healthy and happy life depends on a lot of factors, but these factors do not need to be inaccessible for those in Senior Care. Pacoima, CA families have the means available right here to avoid one of the factors: a deficiency of Vitamin D.
Vitamins and minerals are compounds that the body needs to function properly, and most of these compounds have to be ingested through the food we eat. Vitamin D, on the other hand, is also produced naturally, in our skin, when we are exposed to the UVB rays that come from the sun. That’s right: even for those taking advantage of an excellent residential assisted living service in Pacoima, CA, sun exposure helps us to produce Vitamin D naturally.
But as we age, our skin gets thinner and this can reduce the amount of Vitamin D that our bodies produce naturally. The symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency should be known by elderly care providers. Pacoima, CA families should find out if their chosen senior care agency knows about the signs of Vitamin D deficiency, to make sure their loved one is getting the help and care that they need and deserve.
Signs of Vitamin D Deficiency for Elderly Care in Pacoima, CA
There are a few signs that might point to a low level of Vitamin D (though they could point to something else, too). The symptoms that could indicate a Vitamin D deficiency include the following.
The first symptom is weakening of the muscles and bones. Legs and arms may start to feel heavy. And since Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, bones may become more brittle.
The second symptom is drastic changes in mood or cognitive function. Vitamin D aids in the regulation of dopamine and serotonin, and helps stave off things like depression and schizophrenia.
A third symptom is weight gain. Vitamin D influences how the body regulates fat storage, and helps aid the appetite. Without enough Vitamin D, these signals can get crossed.
The fourth symptom is fatigue and body pain. Lower levels of Vitamin D can contribute to stiffness and joint pain across the shoulders and in the hips. This in turn can discourage activity, which leads to greater fatigue.
And the fifth symptom is digestive issues. Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, can result from low levels of Vitamin D. This condition can make it more difficult for the body to properly absorb dietary fat.
Excellent Elderly Assisted Living Can Help
The best thing for your loved one is to have excellent elderly assisted living near me. Pacoima, CA families can rely on the compassionate, trained, licensed, and bonded CAREGivers of Home Instead to be on the lookout for these symptoms, and to help determine a plan of action to help reverse them. Whether it’s more activity in the sun, an improved diet, or vitamin supplements, whatever a doctor approves for your loved one will be what the Home Instead CAREGivers will pursue. To learn more, call Home Instead today at (818) 805-2208.
