Vitamin B12 also known as cobalamin is a B-complex vitamin that is mainly found in animal foods such as red meat, fish, chicken, turkey and milk. Vitamin B12 is also added in processed foods such as breakfast cereals. Geriatrics are at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency because of age-related changes in the stomach and intestines, which affect the absorption of B12, according to the Office of Dietary Supplement. Geriatrics with B12 deficiency experience several symptoms.
Neurological and Psychiatric Symptoms
Vitamin B12 is important for maintaining healthy nerve cells, according to MayoClinic.com. Geriatrics experience B12 deficiency more frequently because of age-related decrease in secretion of hydrochloric acid by the stomach, which results in decreased absorption of vitamin B12, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Neurological and psychiatric symptoms caused by B12 deficiency include numbness and tingling of extremities, problems walking, muscle weakness, confusion, depression, anxiety, memory problems and dementia. Lack of treatment of B12 deficiency in geriatric patients may lead to permanent neurological damages.
Anemia
Vitamin B12 is also important for the production of healthy red blood cells in geriatrics. Lack of vitamin B12 can lead to pernicious anemia, or megaloblastic anemia, according to MayoClinic.com. In megaloblastic anemia, the bone marrow produces many large abnormal red blood cells leading to increased blood thickness. Geriatrics with megaloblastic anemia may experience symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain and pale skin. Anemia due to B12 deficiency is treated with life-long B12 injections.
Fatigue
Vitamin B12 and other B-complex vitamins are important in metabolism. The B vitamins assist in the conversion of carbohydrates, proteins and fats into glucose that can be utilized the body. Glucose is the body's main source of energy. Geriatrics are more likely to suffer from fatigue caused by B12 deficiency due to age-related decreased appetite and absorption of foods. Geriatrics suffering from excessive fatigue should be evaluated for B vitamin deficiencies.
