The elderly patient may experience a decrease in height resulting from
a. muscle atrophy. c. a narrowing of the intervertebral disk.
b. loss of bone density. d. thoracic kyphosis.
C
The elderly patient may experience a decrease in height resulting from a narrowing of the intervertebral disk. Height may be diminished by 1.5–3 inches. Muscular atrophy leads to a decrease in muscle mass, strength, and agility. Bone density decreases in the older adult because of an increased rate of reabsorption which exceeds the rate of bone replenishment. This leads to an increased potential for fractures due to osteoporosis. Thoracic kyphosis causes a change in the center of gravity, making the individual more prone to loss of balance and to falls.
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Autonomy
What will be an ideal response?