A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about physiological changes in the digestive system that occur with aging. The nurse should include older adults might experience which of the following physiological changes?

A. In older adults, stomach pH tends to increase (become less acidic) due to reduced gastric acid production, a condition called hypochlorhydria. A decreased pH (more acidic) is not typical with aging. B. Intestinal peristalsis decreases with age, leading to slower movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract. This reduction can contribute to constipation, delayed gastric emptying, and other digestive changes commonly observed in older adults. The slowing of peristalsis is associated with age-related changes in smooth muscle function and the enteric nervous system. C. Gastric acid production usually decreases with age, not increases. This reduction can impair digestion and absorption of nutrients like vitamin B12, calcium, and iron. D. Muscle tone of the bowel generally decreases, not increases, with aging. Reduced muscle tone contributes to slower transit time and may increase the risk of constipation and fecal impaction.