Which of the following nutrients may require additional focus in an elderly diet?

Calcium is particularly important in the diet of older adults for several reasons. With aging, the risk of osteoporosis and fractures increases significantly due to the natural decline in bone mass and density. Adequate calcium intake is crucial for maintaining bone health and preventing these conditions.

Furthermore, older adults may have dietary restrictions, decreased absorption, or lower dietary intake of calcium-rich foods, which compounds the risk of deficiency. Specifically, as people age, the efficiency of the intestines to absorb nutrients decreases, which can lead to lower calcium levels if dietary intake is not sufficiently high.

Additionally, factors such as decreased physical activity and changes in hormonal levels with aging can further exacerbate the need for adequate calcium in the diet. Therefore, it is vital for nutritionists working with elderly populations to emphasize calcium intake to support skeletal health and overall well-being in this age group.