Vitamin B12

Deficiency In
Elderly
By: Susan Jose
Ahmed Ali Kanoo H.C
Elderly Mobile Unit Staff
What is Vitamin B12 Deficiency
& its Importance?
 Vitamin B12 plays a critical role in our bodies, especially as we age. It is an essential
nutrient that supports the health of our nervous system, ensuring that our nerves
function properly. This is particularly important for the elderly, as nerve-related issues
become more common with age.

 Additionally, Vitamin B12 is involved in DNA synthesis, which is essential for cell growth
and repair. This process becomes even more vital as our bodies age and need to
regenerate and maintain healthy cells.

 Furthermore, Vitamin B12 is necessary for the production of red blood cells. Red blood
cells carry oxygen throughout our bodies, providing energy and supporting the
functioning of all our organs, including the brain. Adequate Vitamin B12 levels are
crucial for maintaining cognitive function, memory, and overall vitality.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Hairfall

Shortness of breath

Loss of Appetite

Weakness

Difficulty in Maintaining Balance

Constipation

Numbness or Tingling
It's crucial for elderly individuals to be aware of the symptoms of Vitamin
B12 deficiency. Recognizing these symptoms can help identify potential
issues and seek timely medical attention.

Common signs of Vitamin B12 deficiency in the elderly include weakness,

feeling tired or fatigued easily, a loss of appetite, and digestive problems
like constipation. These symptoms can impact daily activities, limit
mobility, and affect overall quality of life.

Another common symptom is experiencing tingling or numbness in the

arms and legs. This can be a sign of nerve damage, which can occur when
Vitamin B12 levels are inadequate.

Difficulty with balance and coordination is also a possible symptom. This

can lead to falls and injuries, which can be particularly dangerous for the
elderly.

Shortness of breath is another symptom that may indicate Vitamin B12

deficiency. It can occur due to the effects of Vitamin B12 on red blood cell
production and oxygen-carrying capacity.
 Consequences of B12 Deficiency
• Untreated Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to serious consequences for the elderly. It's
important to understand the potential risks associated with prolonged deficiency.
• One of the significant consequences is nerve damage. Vitamin B12 is crucial for maintaining
the health of our nerves, and deficiency can result in peripheral neuropathy. This condition
can cause pain, tingling, and numbness in the extremities, affecting mobility and daily
activities.
• Another consequence is anemia, specifically megaloblastic anemia. Vitamin B12 is necessary
for the proper production of red blood cells. In its absence, red blood cells become larger and
inefficient, leading to anemia. Anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath,
impacting overall energy levels and wellbeing.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency has also been linked to cardiovascular issues in the elderly. It can
contribute to an increased risk of heart disease, including heart attacks and strokes.
Maintaining adequate Vitamin B12 levels is essential for a healthy cardiovascular system
. • Cognitive decline is another concern associated with Vitamin B12 deficiency. Studies have
shown that inadequate Vitamin B12 levels can increase the risk of cognitive impairment,
memory problems, and even dementia in older adults. This highlights the importance of
addressing Vitamin B12 deficiency to support cognitive health and maintain mental sharpness.
• In addition, weakened bones and an increased risk of osteoporosis have been linked to
Vitamin B12 deficiency in the elderly. Adequate Vitamin B12 levels are necessary for bone
health and calcium absorption, reducing the risk of fractures and bone-related issues.
Other Possible Symptoms
 Brain fog,

 Alzheimer’s

 Fibromyalgia,

 Dementia,

 Neuropathy symptoms
 Factors Affecting Vitamin B12 Absorption
• Elderly individuals are at higher risk of Vitamin B12 deficiency due to age-related changes in our
digestive system. As we age, our bodies may produce less stomach acid, which is necessary for the
absorption of Vitamin B12 from food.
• Certain medications can also interfere with Vitamin B12 absorption. Acid suppressing drugs,
often used to manage conditions like acid reflux or ulcers, can reduce the stomach's ability to
release acid, hindering Vitamin B12 absorption. Additionally, metformin, a commonly prescribed
medication for diabetes, can affect Vitamin B12 levels in some individuals.
• Dietary factors are also important. Elderly individuals following a vegetarian or vegan diet may
have a higher risk of Vitamin B12 deficiency, as plant-based foods do not naturally provide
Vitamin B12. However, fortified plant-based milk, breakfast cereals, and nutritional yeast can offer
some alternative sources of Vitamin B12 for those avoiding animal products.
• Certain medical conditions and procedures can affect Vitamin B12 absorption as well. For
example, individuals with gastrointestinal disorders like Crohn's disease or celiac disease may have
impaired absorption. Weight loss surgery, which alters the digestive system, can also impact
Vitamin B12 absorption. It's essential for healthcare professionals to consider these factors when
assessing an elderly individual's risk of Vitamin B12 deficiency
 What Happens if Vitamin B12
Deficiency is left untreated…..?
If left untreated, B12 Deficiency can be a host of neurological
problems including- Neuropathy, Neuropsychiatric
manifestations, and impaired vision, taste, and smell.

In the long term, this can ultimately lead to permanent

nerve and brain damage, brain atrophy, Dementia and
Alzheimer's.
 Including Vitamin B12-rich foods in our diet is crucial for
meeting our nutritional needs. For elderly individuals, it
becomes even more important to prioritize these sources

Animal products
Supplements can are excellent
come in various sources of Vitamin
forms like pills, B12. Foods like
sublingual tablets, meat, fish, poultry,
or injections. It's eggs, and dairy
essential to consult Dietary Sources and Supplementation contain ample
a healthcare amounts of this
provider to essential nutrient.
determine the Encouraging
appropriate elderly individuals
dosage and form For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, obtaining sufficient to incorporate
of Vitamin B12 can be more challenging. However, fortified plant-based these foods into
supplementation milk, breakfast cereals, and nutritional yeast can provide some Vitamin their meals can
based on B12. It's important to read food labels and choose products that are help maintain
individual needs. fortified with Vitamin B12In certain cases, supplementation may be adequate Vitamin
necessary. Healthcare professionals can assess an individual's Vitamin B12 B12 levels
levels and provide personalized recommendations.
 Most Commonly Affected Vitamin B12
Deficiency Groups
Age 60 or More Vegetarians or Vegans

Abuse alcohol, Nitrous Oxide Have had weight loss

or are HIV-positive. surgery have

H. pylori, the bacteria that Irritable Bowel Syndrome or

causes ulcers have an eating disorder

Takes acid-suppressing Have a chronic digestive

drugs, or takes Metformin for disorder such as Crohn’s,
diabetes* Celiac Disease.
Long Term Health Issues in Elderly…

Research is now diving deeper into a

number of health related illnesses
that could be directly or indirectly
linked to a Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Some of these illnesses are age related

muscular degeneration, neural tube defects,
cardiovascular disease, cognitive diseases,
osteoporosis and other age related
diseases.
 Normal Levels of Vitamin B12 in
Elderly

• A serum vitamin B12 level between 200 pg/mL and 900

pg/mL is considered normal, but a threshold of 300 to 350
pg/mL is recognized as a marker for a desirable status in the
elderly.

• Below 300 pg/ml is considered as Deficiency and will

require Medical Attention.
 Do’s & Don'ts
• What to Do?
● Adding Vitamin B12 Rich
food to Diet on Daily Basis.
● Taking Vitamin B12 &
Multivitamin Supplents after
consulting the Doctor
● Doctor’s Check up and Blood
tests to be done in regularly
according to the advice from
the Doctor.
• What not to do ?
● Do not self treat if diagnosed
with an illness or Vitamin
Deficency.
● Consulating and treating with
more than one Medical
Practioner if Diagnosed.
● Regular Vitamin & Minerals
Check-up to know the levels if
not Diagnosed.
 • Regular check-ups and blood tests are essential for monitoring Vitamin B12 levels
in the elderly. These routine assessments allow healthcare professionals to identify
any deficiencies and take necessary steps to address them promptly.
• Healthcare professionals can provide personalized advice and recommendations for
preventive measures or supplementation, if necessary. They can assess an
individual's risk factors, dietary habits, and medical history to develop a tailored
plan to address Vitamin B12 deficiency.
Preventive • Empowering elderly individuals to actively participate in their own care is
important for their well-being. Encouraging them to incorporate Vitamin B12-rich

Measures and foods into their diet can promote nutritional awareness and support overall health.
By providing educational resources and emphasizing the importance of proper
nutrition, we can help elderly individuals take control of their health.
Management
THE END

Thank You!