Change in vitamin D status is associated with improved physical performance over one year: the LIFE‐P study

Abstract

Vitamin D insufficiency is common among older adults and may play a role in musculoskeletal function; however, few studies have examined the longitudinal association between vitamin D and physical function. Thus, we examined the association between vitamin D status and change in vitamin D status and physical performance in the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders Pilot (LIFE‐P) Study. Plasma 25(OH)D and physical performance using the short physical performance battery (SPPB) score were assessed at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Mixed models were used to examine the associations between 25(OH)D status (<50 nmol/L vs. ≥50 nmol/L) and SPPB in models adjusted for demographics, intervention group, season, physical activity and BMI (n=368). The mean age of the participants was 76.7 yrs; 68% were women, 76% were white, and 50% were vitamin D sufficient (≥50 nmol/L) at baseline. Vitamin D sufficiency was associated with higher SPPB scores at baseline (Mean difference (SE): 0.35 (0.16), p=0.03). Going from vitamin D insufficient to sufficient was associated with improved SPPB scores at follow‐up (0.57 (0.22), p=0.01). In conclusion, sufficient vitamin D status and change from insufficient to sufficient vitamin D status were associated with better physical performance. Supported by the NIA (U01 AG22376); the WFU OAIC (P30 AG021332); K01 AG030506; and the Sticht Foundation.