Final answer:
Age increases pre-surgical risk due to diminished physiological reserves, the presence of coexisting medical conditions, and a reduced ability to recover from surgery, leading to potential complications and longer recovery times.
Step-by-step explanation:
Age is considered a pre-surgical risk factor because as people age, their physiological reserves diminish and the risk of complications during and after surgery increases. A 78-year-old woman may have coexisting medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or hypertension, which can complicate both the anesthesia and the surgical procedure. Furthermore, older patients often have a decreased ability to recover from surgery due to reduced regenerative capacities. This can lead to longer hospital stays, increased susceptibility to infections, and a slower return to baseline functioning.