Researchers have found an association between low blood vitamin D levels and the coexistence of depressive symptoms and mild cognitive impairment in people over the age of 85 with type 2 diabetes.
The study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, analyzed data from 188 older adults with diabetes. Participants were divided into four groups: those with depressive symptoms only, those with mild cognitive impairment only, those with both conditions, and those with neither.
The lowest vitamin D levels were observed in patients who had both depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment.
After adjusting for age, duration of diabetes, educational level, and other medical conditions, the researchers found that lower vitamin D concentrations remained associated with a higher likelihood of having both depressive symptoms and mild cognitive impairment.
The authors emphasize that the findings demonstrate an association rather than a cause-and-effect relationship. The study does not prove that vitamin D deficiency causes depression or memory decline, nor does it show that vitamin D supplements can prevent or treat either condition.
The researchers also note that the relationship may work in the opposite direction: declining health, reduced physical activity, less time spent outdoors, and poor nutrition could themselves contribute to lower vitamin D levels.
According to the authors, further long-term studies are needed to determine whether vitamin D plays a role in maintaining cognitive health in very old adults and whether correcting vitamin D deficiency has practical clinical benefits.
Follow NEWS.am Medicine on Facebook and Twitter