A comprehensive review published in The BMJ suggests that calcium supplements, vitamin D supplements, or taking both together provide little to no clinically meaningful benefit in preventing fractures or falls for most older adults.
Falls are a major health concern among seniors. Nearly one in three people age 65 and older experiences a fall each year, and many of these incidents result in fractures. Such injuries can lead to pain, reduced independence, lower quality of life, and, in some cases, the need for long term residential care. As populations age, preventing falls and fractures remains an important public health goal worldwide.
Previous reviews have already raised questions about the effectiveness of calcium and vitamin D supplements. Research has generally found no reduction in fracture risk from either supplement alone, while results for taking both together have been mixed. The role of vitamin D in reducing falls has also remained uncertain.
Even so, vitamin D supplements (with or without calcium) continue to be widely recommended by healthcare providers, professional guidelines, and regulatory agencies for bone health. Prescriptions for these supplements have also risen considerably in recent years.
