Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which of the following is commonly linked to the immune theory of aging?

1. Decreased metabolic rate

2. Decline in reproductive hormones

3. Faulty immunological function

4. Increased muscle mass

The correct answer is: Faulty immunological function

The immune theory of aging posits that the aging process is significantly influenced by a decline in the functioning of the immune system. This theory suggests that as individuals age, their immune system becomes less efficient at responding to infections, repairing damaged tissues, and removing old or damaged cells. This decline can lead to increased vulnerability to diseases, a higher incidence of autoimmune disorders, and a general decline in overall health. Faulty immunological function encompasses various changes in both innate and adaptive immunity, including reduced production of immune cells, diminished response to vaccination, and increased chronic inflammation, often referred to as "inflammaging." These changes contribute to the higher susceptibility to infections and the development of chronic health conditions in older adults. In contrast, decreased metabolic rate, decline in reproductive hormones, and increased muscle mass are related to different biological mechanisms that may occur with aging but do not specifically correlate with the immune theory of aging. Therefore, the choice linked directly to the immune theory of aging is undoubtedly the decline in immunological function.