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Elderly patients should be considered immunocompromised for several reasons:
1. T cell function and reduced cellular immunity occur as we get older.
2. B cell antibody production decreases.
3. Host defenses against infection are reduced with aging, such as reduced circulation and thinning skin.
4. Miscellaneous factors, such as malnutrition and co-existing illnesses contribute to increased risk of infection as well.
[Good reference and suggested reading: Hals G. Common diagnoses become difficult diagnoses when geriatric patients visit the emergency department: Part I. Emergency Medicine Reports 2010;31(9):103-111.]