Which of the following is not a common change in body composition of healthy older adults?

• A. Decreased bone mineral mass
• B. Redistributed fatty tissue
• C. Decreased lean body mass
• D. Increased body water

Answer: (D)

As people age, certain body composition changes are commonly observed: bone mineral density tends to decline, lean body mass decreases (sarcopenia), and fat becomes redistributed toward central areas. Total body water, which is tied closely to lean tissue, generally decreases with age rather than increases. So an increase in body water is not a typical change seen in healthy older adults. The other changes described align with established aging patterns: lower bone mineral mass raises fracture risk, reduced lean mass lowers metabolic rate and function, and central fat redistribution carries metabolic risks.