When we think of vitamin deficiencies, scurvy often brings to mind images of 18th-century sailors suffering during long voyages without fresh food. But recent research shows that this isn't just a problem of the past. A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) highlights an alarming resurgence of vitamin C deficiency among older adults, showing that scurvy is very much a modern-day concern.

This deficiency, often overlooked, can lead to a range of serious health problems, particularly for the elderly.

Care to know more about it? In this blog by Karepedia, we’ll explore how vitamin C deficiency affects older adults, what the signs are, and how you can prevent it.

Why Is Vitamin C Important?

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is essential for several bodily functions. It supports immune health, helps form collagen (which is important for skin, bones, and connective tissues), aids in wound healing, and boosts the absorption of iron. Since our bodies can't produce or store vitamin C, we need to regularly consume it through our diet.

For the elderly, maintaining adequate vitamin C levels is even more crucial, as it can impact their energy levels, skin health, and overall immune function.

The Case of Vitamin C Deficiency in the Elderly

The recent CMAJ study brought to light the case of a 65-year-old woman suffering from a host of nonspecific symptoms like fatigue, leg pain, and skin lesions. What was initially puzzling turned out to be scurvy, a direct result of vitamin C deficiency. This woman's mobility issues and limited access to fresh food led her to rely on canned goods, lacking the necessary nutrients.

Her case isn't an isolated one. In today’s world, older adults who face food insecurity, mobility limitations, or restrictive diets can easily miss out on vital nutrients, including vitamin C. Conditions like arthritis or chronic pain, which limit an older person’s ability to shop or prepare meals, often lead to a reliance on processed foods that lack essential vitamins.

Key Signs of Vitamin C Deficiency

The symptoms of vitamin C deficiency in older adults are often subtle and can be mistaken for other conditions. Common signs include:

• Abnormal bleeding or bruising: Vitamin C is necessary for blood vessel health, and without it, blood vessels can become fragile.
• Fatigue and weakness: A deficiency can affect energy levels and lead to overall feelings of tiredness.
• Slow wound healing: Vitamin C helps in tissue repair, and its absence can cause wounds to take longer to heal.
• Joint pain: Low vitamin C levels can cause inflammation and pain in joints.
• Skin changes: Scaly, dry, or discoloured skin can be an indication of low vitamin C levels.

In severe cases, prolonged vitamin C deficiency can lead to scurvy, which manifests as swollen gums, tooth loss, and even internal bleeding.

Why the Elderly Are at Higher Risk

Elderly individuals are more susceptible to vitamin C deficiency for several reasons. As mobility declines, access to fresh fruits and vegetables can become limited, particularly for those living alone or on a fixed income. In addition, some older adults may follow restrictive diets or suffer from chronic health conditions that limit nutrient absorption, such as gastrointestinal disorders. Even smoking, a habit some seniors continue, depletes vitamin C levels faster than in non-smokers.

The Link to Scurvy

The study from CMAJ serves as a wake-up call that scurvy is not a disease of the past. It can—and does—affect individuals today, especially those with poor nutrition. What makes the case even more striking is that the patient’s symptoms improved once vitamin C was added to her treatment plan, confirming that simple dietary changes can dramatically improve quality of life.

What Can You Do?

Preventing vitamin C deficiency is easier than you might think. Here are some tips to ensure that you or an elderly loved one are getting enough vitamin C

1. Eat Vitamin C-Rich Foods: Fresh fruits and vegetables are the best sources of vitamin C. Try to include items like oranges, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, and broccoli in daily meals.

2. Consider a Supplement: If dietary restrictions or access to fresh produce are issues, a vitamin C supplement may be a good option. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

3. Stay Informed: Be aware of the symptoms of vitamin C deficiency, especially in elderly family members. If you notice unusual bruising, bleeding gums, or persistent fatigue, it's worth checking their vitamin levels.

4. Encourage Variety in Diet: Meals should include a variety of food groups to ensure balanced nutrition. Frozen vegetables can be a good alternative when fresh produce isn’t available, as they retain most of their nutrients.

By raising awareness and ensuring that the elderly have access to the right nutrients, we can help prevent vitamin C deficiency and its associated health risks. The next time you plan a meal for yourself or a loved one, remember: a little extra orange or broccoli could make a big difference!