Which statement regarding older adults and immobilization describes a common health risk?

Which statement regarding older adults and immobilization describes a common health risk?

• A. Increased appetite
• B. Weight gain
• C. Reduced risk of thromboembolism
• D. Ischemia and osteoporosis due to pressure and immobility

Answer: (D)

Prolonged immobilization in older adults creates sustained pressure on skin and underlying tissues, which impairs blood flow and leads to tissue ischemia and pressure ulcers. At the same time, lack of movement reduces bone remodeling, causing loss of bone density or osteoporosis. These effects are common and directly tied to being immobile, making ischemia from pressure and disuse osteoporosis the best description of the usual health risks. Increased appetite or weight gain aren’t primary risks of immobility, and immobilization actually raises the risk of thromboembolism rather than decreases it.

Prolonged immobilization in older adults creates sustained pressure on skin and underlying tissues, which impairs blood flow and leads to tissue ischemia and pressure ulcers. At the same time, lack of movement reduces bone remodeling, causing loss of bone density or osteoporosis. These effects are common and directly tied to being immobile, making ischemia from pressure and disuse osteoporosis the best description of the usual health risks. Increased appetite or weight gain aren’t primary risks of immobility, and immobilization actually raises the risk of thromboembolism rather than decreases it.