What are common food safety issues affecting older adults?

The correct choice highlights the connection between reduced immune function and an increased risk of foodborne illness in older adults. As people age, their immune systems naturally decline, which makes them more susceptible to infections and illnesses, including those caused by foodborne pathogens. This decline can result from both intrinsic factors, such as the aging process itself, and extrinsic factors like chronic health conditions and medication use that further weaken the immune response.

Consequently, older adults are at a higher risk of experiencing severe complications from foodborne illnesses compared to younger populations. This increased vulnerability necessitates a greater focus on food safety practices, including proper food handling, cooking, and storage techniques, to mitigate risks effectively.

The other options do not directly correlate to significant food safety concerns in the same way. For instance, increased food preferences could refer to the varied dietary choices older adults might have but doesn't inherently relate to safety issues. A higher metabolism rate is generally associated with younger individuals, as metabolism typically slows with age rather than increases. Lastly, while some older adults may develop new food allergies, this is not as prevalent or impactful in terms of food safety risks when compared to the heightened risk of foodborne illness due to compromised immune systems.