Which statement reflects a common nutrition consideration for older adults?

Which statement reflects a common nutrition consideration for older adults?

• A. Adequate protein and energy intake.
• B. Hydration is rarely an issue.
• C. B12 absorption declines with age.
• D. Vitamin D and calcium are not important for bone health.

Answer: (A)

In older adults, ensuring adequate protein and energy intake is a constant priority because aging often brings lean-mass loss (sarcopenia) and changes in appetite. Sufficient protein supports muscle maintenance and repair, immune function, and overall function, while enough calories furnish the energy needed for daily activities and help prevent the body from breaking down protein for energy. Together, they address a broad and ongoing nutrition need seen in many older adults, making this option the most universally applicable. Hydration is actually a common concern in older adults, since thirst sensation can lessen with age and some medications or mobility issues can worsen fluid balance, so saying hydration is rarely an issue isn’t accurate. B12 absorption can decline with age due to changes in the stomach lining and intrinsic factor, so it’s a real consideration for many, though it varies by individual. And vitamin D and calcium remain important for bone health, so stating they aren’t relevant isn’t correct.

In older adults, ensuring adequate protein and energy intake is a constant priority because aging often brings lean-mass loss (sarcopenia) and changes in appetite. Sufficient protein supports muscle maintenance and repair, immune function, and overall function, while enough calories furnish the energy needed for daily activities and help prevent the body from breaking down protein for energy. Together, they address a broad and ongoing nutrition need seen in many older adults, making this option the most universally applicable.

Hydration is actually a common concern in older adults, since thirst sensation can lessen with age and some medications or mobility issues can worsen fluid balance, so saying hydration is rarely an issue isn’t accurate. B12 absorption can decline with age due to changes in the stomach lining and intrinsic factor, so it’s a real consideration for many, though it varies by individual. And vitamin D and calcium remain important for bone health, so stating they aren’t relevant isn’t correct.