Final answer:
The statement that older adults often respond the same to medications or treatments as younger adults do is false. Age-related physiological changes and a higher likelihood of polypharmacy can cause differences in drug response, requiring careful consideration in treatment decisions for older adults.
Step-by-step explanation:
Responses to Medications in Older Adults
True or False: Older adults often respond the same to medications or treatments as adults do. This statement is False. Older adults can experience different effects from medications and treatments compared to younger adults due to several factors. These include physiological changes with aging, such as a decreased rate of metabolism, altered body composition, and changes in organ function, which can affect how a drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted. Furthermore, older adults are more likely to be taking multiple medications, leading to a higher risk of drug interactions and side effects. Therefore, healthcare professionals must carefully consider these factors when prescribing treatments for older adults to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Factors Affecting Drug Response in Older Adults
- Metabolic changes with aging can alter drug response.
- Increased likelihood of chronic diseases that can affect drug response.
- Polypharmacy can result in drug interactions.