Question

All elderly tend to be more susceptible to infection because of:
1. A decline in immune function
2. Poor nutritional status
3. Increased exposure of pathogens
4. Lack of exercises

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 1 : A decline in immune function

Explanation:-

• All the elderly tend to be more susceptible to infection because: their immune system does not work as well or as strongly. The combination of an increase in comorbid conditions and a decrease in immune system activity can make people more prone to infection.

• Substantial changes occur in both innate and adaptive immunity with age. These changes are thought to contribute to the increased frequency of certain infections in older individuals.
• The innate immune response is similarly impaired in older individuals. Impaired neutrophil migration, extracellular trap formation, and bactericidal mechanisms are thought to be a major contributor to infection and slow wound healing observed in the elderly
• Additionally, physiological changes such as decreased nutritional status, difficulty swallowing (which increases the likelihood of microaspiration), and decreased mucociliary clearance make the older adult more susceptible to infection. In conclusion, age-related immunodeficiency and co-morbid conditions (eg type 2 diabetes, dementia) and lifestyle factors such as nursing home residents have all been demonstrated to increase the risk of infectious disease in the elderly.
• Additionally, antibiotic treatment can be less effective because of the altered pharmacokinetics that occurs due to decreased renal function in older adults.
• Consequently, the elderly are at both increased risk of developing bacterial infections but also more likely to be misdiagnosed and their infections mismanaged.