What is a common cause of anemia in older adults?

In older adults, anemia can frequently arise from multiple nutritional deficiencies, with each of the mentioned options being common contributors.

Vitamin B12 deficiency is prevalent in this age group due to changes in absorption mechanisms, particularly as gastric acid secretion decreases or if there are issues with intrinsic factor production, which is necessary for vitamin B12 absorption. A lack of this vitamin can lead to megaloblastic anemia, characterized by larger than normal red blood cells.

Iron deficiency is another significant cause of anemia in older adults. This can be attributed to inadequate dietary intake or chronic blood loss from sources such as gastrointestinal bleeding, which may be more common in older individuals due to conditions such as peptic ulcers or malignancies. The body's iron stores may be insufficient to support healthy red blood cell production.

Folate deficiency can also be a factor, although it is less common than vitamin B12 or iron deficiency. Older adults may not get enough folate from their diet, especially if they have a limited intake of fruits and vegetables, which are key sources.

Consequently, recognizing that each of these deficiencies can independently lead to anemia underscores the importance of a comprehensive assessment to determine the underlying cause(s) in older patients. This multidimensional approach is crucial in the management and treatment of