Can elderly absorb vitamin D from the sun?
Yes, older adults can still synthesise vitamin D from sunlight, but the process becomes less efficient with age. The skin's capacity to produce vitamin D from UVB exposure decreases over time, so older adults may need slightly longer outdoor exposure or dietary sources to maintain healthy levels.
The skin contains a compound called 7-dehydrocholesterol that converts to vitamin D when exposed to UVB rays. As skin ages, the concentration of this compound decreases, making the conversion less efficient. Older adults with darker skin tones may need even more sun exposure to achieve the same synthesis. Rather than increasing unprotected sun exposure on the face, the more practical approach is to allow some sun on the arms and legs during outdoor activity, maintain a diet that includes vitamin D-rich foods, and check blood levels periodically with a doctor.