This position paper of the International Osteoporosis Foundation makes recommendations for vitamin D nutrition in elderly men and women from an evidence-based perspective.

Key recommendations of the IOF statement are:
• The estimated average vitamin D requirement of older adults to reach a serum 25OHD level of 75 nmol/l (30ng/ml) is 20 to 25 micrograms per day (800 to 1,000 IU per day).

• Intakes may need to increase to as much as 50 micrograms (2,000 IU) per day in individuals who are obese, have osteoporosis, limited sun exposure (e.g. housebound or institutionalised), or have malabsorption.

• For high risk individuals it is recommended to measure serum 25OHD levels and treat if deficient.