Which factor is a non-modifiable risk for poor nutrition in older adults?

Which factor is a non-modifiable risk for poor nutrition in older adults?

• A. Income level
• B. Age
• C. Diet quality
• D. Physical activity

Answer: (B)

Age is a non-modifiable factor because it’s a fixed characteristic you can’t change. As people get older, the body undergoes changes that raise the risk of poor nutrition—things like altered taste and smell, lower appetite, dental issues, chronic diseases, and medications that affect appetite or nutrient absorption. These aging-related shifts happen over time and can’t be reversed simply by changing diet or activity. The other factors are considered modifiable. Income level can influence access to healthy foods and support can improve it; diet quality can be improved with nutrition education and planning; and physical activity can be increased to help maintain nutrient status. So the factor that cannot be altered by an individual’s choices or interventions is age.

Age is a non-modifiable factor because it’s a fixed characteristic you can’t change. As people get older, the body undergoes changes that raise the risk of poor nutrition—things like altered taste and smell, lower appetite, dental issues, chronic diseases, and medications that affect appetite or nutrient absorption. These aging-related shifts happen over time and can’t be reversed simply by changing diet or activity.

The other factors are considered modifiable. Income level can influence access to healthy foods and support can improve it; diet quality can be improved with nutrition education and planning; and physical activity can be increased to help maintain nutrient status. So the factor that cannot be altered by an individual’s choices or interventions is age.