Which potential complications of immobility in older adults?

• A. Increased risk of fractures, ischemia, and nutritional deficiencies.
• B. Enhanced skin integrity and muscle strength.
• C. Lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
• D. Improved appetite and hydration.

Answer: (A)

Immobilization in older adults commonly causes problems across bones, skin, and nutrition. When movement is limited, bones lose mineral density and become more fragile, so the risk of fractures increases even with minor stresses. Prolonged pressure and reduced blood flow to soft tissues lead to ischemia, making skin breakdown and pressure ulcers more likely and slowing healing. At the same time, decreased activity can worsen appetite and overall nutritional intake, contributing to nutritional deficiencies. Taken together, these are classic, interconnected complications of immobility in this population.

Other options describe improvements that don’t align with what immobility causes. Enhanced skin integrity, lower cardiovascular risk, or better appetite aren’t typically seen with a sedentary state in older adults.