Final answer:
The three most common joint replacements for older adults are hip, knee, and shoulder arthroplasty..
Step-by-step explanation:
The three most common joint replacements performed on older adults are hip, knee, and shoulder arthroplasty. These procedures are typically conducted to alleviate chronic pain and restore mobility due to severe osteoarthritis or other degenerative joint diseases. With advances in prosthesis design, including the use of synthetic polymers and metals, hip and knee replacements have become more effective, offering pain-free and fully functional artificial joints that can last for decades. The process of hip arthroplasty, for example, involves the replacement of the head and neck of the femur and the acetabulum of the pelvis with tailor-made artificial components. While these surgeries are invasive and require significant recovery and rehabilitation time, the enhanced quality of life post-recovery is often considered well worth the effort.