Is it true or false that older adults experience fewer chronic illnesses than acute illnesses?

The assertion that older adults experience fewer chronic illnesses than acute illnesses is false. As individuals age, they are more likely to develop chronic illnesses, which are long-lasting conditions that typically require ongoing management. Examples of chronic illnesses prevalent in older adults include heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

In contrast, while older adults can experience acute illnesses, these tend to be less common or less frequent compared to chronic conditions. Acute illnesses are typically short-term and can occur suddenly, but they do not usually dominate the health landscape for older individuals as chronic illnesses do.

This understanding highlights the importance of focusing on the management of chronic conditions in older adults, considering their significant impact on quality of life and healthcare needs.