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Malabsorption is considered the most common cause of vitamin B12 deficiency in older adults, accounting for a significant percentage of cases. Understanding the age-related digestive changes that contribute to this deficiency is crucial for senior care and maintaining good health.
Studies suggest that between 10% and 30% of older adults face a reduced ability to absorb nutrients from food, shedding light on why is vitamin B12 deficiency common in the elderly. This widespread issue stems from complex physiological changes that occur with age, making nutrient absorption less efficient for many seniors.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, at least 6% of people aged 60 or older have a vitamin B12 deficiency, compared to just 3% of those aged 20–39. The primary reason for this increase is that as people get older, their ability to absorb certain B vitamins, particularly B12, decreases due to age-related changes in digestive function.
