The findings indicate that supplements alone are not an effective strategy for preventing falls or fractures in most older adults, underscoring the need for individualized, comprehensive bone-health plans.

Beyond supplements, proven preventive measures include regular strength and balance training, physical activity, home safety improvements, vision and hearing checks, osteoporosis screening when appropriate, and the use of assistive devices as needed.

Calcium strengthens bone hardness and vitamin D supports calcium absorption and muscle function, but routine supplementation does not reliably reduce fracture or fall risk.

Current guidance from authorities is under reconsideration, reflecting nuanced interpretations of the evolving evidence.

Findings were consistent across subgroups defined by age, sex, prior fractures or falls, and dietary calcium intake, suggesting broad applicability.

Experts call for reevaluation of broad supplementation guidelines and favor more personalized recommendations based on individual risk profiles and needs.

While calcium and vitamin D remain important, supplementation should be tailored to individual conditions such as osteoporosis, vitamin D deficiency, very low calcium intake, malabsorption, or kidney disease.

Exercise guidance emphasizes two to three days of strength training and several days of impact activities to improve bone density, especially in the lumbar spine and hip, with gradual progression for osteoporosis.

Dietary sources and overall nutrition matter, prioritizing food-based calcium and nutrient synergy over high-dose supplementation.

Older adults face higher bone-density loss, increasing the risk of falls and fractures, which are major causes of injury and death.

Personalized medical advice remains essential for deficiencies, osteoporosis, digestive issues, or specific treatments, rather than a universal supplement approach.

A large meta-analysis of randomized trials found little to no meaningful benefit from calcium, vitamin D, or their combination in preventing fractures or falls.