Which statement about risks of a sedentary lifestyle in older adults is true?

Which statement about risks of a sedentary lifestyle in older adults is true?

• A. Decreased risk of chronic diseases
• B. Increased risk for malnutrition
• C. Increased energy expenditure
• D. Improved functional status

Answer: (B)

Sedentary behavior in older adults increases malnutrition risk because inactivity accelerates loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia) and frailty, which raise protein and energy needs for maintenance and make daily tasks like shopping for, preparing, and consuming nutritious meals more challenging. Appetite and dietary intake can also decline with aging and inactivity, so intake may not meet the higher needs created by reduced mobility and muscle loss, tipping toward malnutrition. In contrast, staying active helps preserve lean mass, supports appetite, and maintains functional ability, while inactivity is associated with higher chronic disease risk, lower energy expenditure, and worse functional status.

Sedentary behavior in older adults increases malnutrition risk because inactivity accelerates loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia) and frailty, which raise protein and energy needs for maintenance and make daily tasks like shopping for, preparing, and consuming nutritious meals more challenging. Appetite and dietary intake can also decline with aging and inactivity, so intake may not meet the higher needs created by reduced mobility and muscle loss, tipping toward malnutrition. In contrast, staying active helps preserve lean mass, supports appetite, and maintains functional ability, while inactivity is associated with higher chronic disease risk, lower energy expenditure, and worse functional status.