Which of the following is a somatosensory change observed in older adults?

• A. Peripheral artery disease
• B. Peripheral neuropathy
• C. Both
• D. None

Answer: (B)

Somatosensory changes in aging arise from declines in peripheral nerve function, especially in the feet and hands, leading to diminished sensation and altered perception of touch, temperature, vibration, and proprioception. Peripheral neuropathy is the classic somatosensory alteration seen in older adults, presenting with numbness, tingling, burning, or decreased protective sensation in the distal extremities and increasing fall risk. Peripheral artery disease, on the other hand, is a vascular condition that affects blood flow and causes claudication and changes in skin and pulses; it is not primarily a somatosensory nerve problem. Therefore, peripheral neuropathy best fits the observed somatosensory change in older adults.