Question

Which of the following conditions is likely to contribute to Vitamin D deficiency in older adults?

1) atrophied skin, dislike for milk, and indoor life
2) lack of exercise, failing hearing and vision
3) slowed peristalsis, diminished secretion of intrinsic factor
4) achlorhydria and inability to chew meats

Answer 1

The condition that can lead to Vitamin D deficiency in older adults is having atrophied skin, disliking milk, and living an indoor life. This deficiency arises because of insufficient sunlight exposure for natural Vitamin D synthesis or inadequate Vitamin D intake from fortified foods like milk. The correct option is 1).

Step-by-step explanation:

The condition likely to contribute to Vitamin D deficiency in older adults is the first one: atrophied skin, dislike for milk, and an indoor life. As we age, our skin becomes less efficient at synthesizing Vitamin D, even when exposed to sunlight.

Moreover, if someone dislikes milk, which is often fortified with Vitamin D, they may not get enough of this vitamin through their diet. Finally, leading an indoor life can result in minimal exposure to sunlight, which greatly diminishes the body's ability to produce Vitamin D naturally.

Vitamin D synthesis is crucial for maintaining healthy bones, as it assists in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the gut.

Without sufficient exposure to sunlight for the skin to synthesize Vitamin D or adequate dietary intake, older adults can develop osteomalacia, which results in softening of the bones. This can contribute to further complications such as osteoporosis. Option 1) is the correct one.