An 85-year-old patient comments during his annual physical examination that he seems to be getting shorter as he ages. Why does height decrease with aging?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Postural changes are evident with aging and decreased height is most noticeable due to shortening of the vertebral column. Long bones do not shorten with age. Intervertebral disks actually get thinner with age. Subcutaneous fat is not lost but is redistributed to the abdomen and hips.

An 85-Year-Old Patient Comments During His Annual Physical Examination That