Which of the following is a consequence of malnutrition in older adults?

Which of the following is a consequence of malnutrition in older adults?

• A. Increased risk for illness and poor wound healing.
• B. Decreased risk for infection.
• C. Enhanced immune response.
• D. Faster wound healing.

Answer: (A)

Malnutrition in older adults undermines both immune defenses and tissue repair, so illness becomes more likely and wounds heal more slowly. When protein and essential micronutrients are lacking, the body has fewer resources to fight infections, impairing immune cell function and increasing susceptibility to illnesses. Protein-energy malnutrition also reduces collagen production and skin integrity, delays wound granulation, and slows overall healing. In the elderly, these effects are magnified by chronic diseases and reduced physiological reserves. Therefore, the prominent consequence is an increased risk for illness and poor wound healing. Malnutrition does not lower infection risk, enhance immune response, or speed healing.

Malnutrition in older adults undermines both immune defenses and tissue repair, so illness becomes more likely and wounds heal more slowly. When protein and essential micronutrients are lacking, the body has fewer resources to fight infections, impairing immune cell function and increasing susceptibility to illnesses. Protein-energy malnutrition also reduces collagen production and skin integrity, delays wound granulation, and slows overall healing. In the elderly, these effects are magnified by chronic diseases and reduced physiological reserves. Therefore, the prominent consequence is an increased risk for illness and poor wound healing. Malnutrition does not lower infection risk, enhance immune response, or speed healing.