HESI Health Assessment Practice Test 2026 – All-in-One Study Guide for Exam Success!

The correct response highlights the potential inaccuracy of mid-upper arm circumference and triceps skinfold measurements in elderly patients due to physiological changes associated with aging. As individuals age, their skin may lose elasticity and structural integrity, which affects how skinfold measurements are obtained. Additionally, shifts in fat distribution can lead to changes in body composition that may not be accurately represented by traditional measurement methods. For instance, older adults may experience sarcopenia, or a loss of muscle mass, leading to increased fat to lean tissue ratios that could skew skinfold measurement results.

In the context of elderly care, it is vital for healthcare providers to understand these age-related changes and consider their implications when interpreting anthropometric data. This awareness is critical in ensuring accurate assessments of nutritional status and health risks in older adults.