Which statement is true regarding trauma in the elderly?

The statement that fatal outcomes are more likely in the elderly than in the young is accurate due to several underlying factors associated with the aging process. As individuals age, they often experience a decline in physiological reserve and have comorbidities that can complicate recovery from traumatic incidents. Additionally, age-related changes, such as reduced bone density and slower healing responses, make the elderly more vulnerable to severe injuries following trauma.

Furthermore, the elderly may not only suffer more severe injuries in situations such as falls, but their ability to withstand trauma is often diminished compared to younger individuals. This results in a higher likelihood of mortality in the elderly population when faced with traumatic events, corroborated by statistical evidence showing that older adults suffer a greater risk of fatality in various types of accidents or injuries.

In contrast, the other statements do not hold true when assessed against prevailing medical knowledge. Elderly patients are generally at a higher risk of internal bleeding due to age-related physiological changes. Outcomes following burns can be worse for elderly patients due to factors such as increased skin fragility and decreased healing capacity. Finally, motor vehicle collisions remain a significant mechanism of injury for all age groups, including the elderly, rather than being an uncommon occurrence.