Hypovitaminosis D is a common finding in the healthy elderly population and has significant sequelae. No clear dietary or sunlight-related risk factors were identified by dietary assessment and modified outdoor score. Fortified liquid milk and vitamin supplements were associated with significantly higher serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. These results emphasise the need for foodstuff fortification and supplement use in the healthy elderly, as well as the 'high-risk' housebound and institutionalised elderly.