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What is the most important physiologic decline in elderly individuals?

While aging is characterized by a wide range of physiological changes, the decline in functional reserve across multiple organ systems is arguably the most important, as it significantly increases vulnerability to stressors. The loss of this reserve reduces the body's ability to cope with illness, injury, and other physical or environmental demands, directly addressing the question of what is the most important physiologic decline in elderly individuals. This overarching decline manifests in specific, critical ways across the body, impacting overall health and independence.