Vitamin nutrition in older adults

Malnutrition is rampant among elderly persons. Fifty percent of older adults have a vitamin and mineral intake less than the recommended dietary allowance (RDA), and 10%. to 30% have subnormal levels of vitamins and minerals. In the elderly population, poor nutrition is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Vitamin supplementation is readily available and inexpensive. This article describes simple preventive and corrective measures that health care professionals can apply when they are aware of the persons who are at risk of malnutrition.