Decreased functioning of which physical structure is likely to result in decreased metabolism in older adults?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism. In older adults, decreased thyroid function, known as hypothyroidism, can lead to a decrease in metabolism. This can result in symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and slowed heart rate. A: Kidney - While the kidneys play a role in filtering waste and maintaining fluid balance, decreased kidney function typically does not directly impact metabolism. C: Brain - The brain plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, but it does not directly control metabolism. D: Skeleton - The skeleton provides structural support and protects organs but does not directly influence metabolism.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Immunologic theory. This theory of aging focuses on the decline in immune function as individuals age, making them more vulnerable to infections like the flu. The flu prevention workshop at the senior center aligns with this theory by aiming to boost seniors' immune systems to reduce their susceptibility to the flu. A: Free radical theory attributes aging to the accumulation of damage caused by reactive oxygen species, not specifically related to immune function. C: Oxidative stress theory is similar to the free radical theory in emphasizing the role of oxidative damage in aging, not directly related to immune function. D: Telomere theory suggests that cellular aging is influenced by the shortening of telomeres, which is not directly related to immune function or flu prevention.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Diabetes. Healthy People 2020 focuses on improving the health of older adults, and diabetes is a chronic condition prevalent in this population. It can significantly impact health, function, and quality of life if not managed properly. Diabetes can lead to complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and vision problems. By targeting diabetes, the goal is to prevent these complications and improve overall health outcomes for older adults. Summary of why other choices are incorrect: B: Arthritis - While arthritis is common in older adults, it is not a targeted chronic focus area identified by Healthy People 2020 for this population. C: Congestive heart failure - Although heart health is important, congestive heart failure is not specifically highlighted as a priority for improvement in older adults by Healthy People 2020. D: Dementia - Dementia is a serious concern in the aging population, but it is not one of the targeted chronic focus areas identified by Healthy People 202

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "The unknown may be frightening. Do you want to talk about this?" This response acknowledges the patient's fear and offers an opportunity for the patient to express their concerns. It shows empathy and encourages open communication. Choice B is incorrect because it assumes all religious people share the same belief, which may not be the case for this patient. Choice C is incorrect as it imposes experiences of others onto the patient, which may not align with their beliefs or feelings. Choice D is incorrect as it assumes the patient's feelings without giving them a chance to express themselves.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Verbal fluency is the correct answer because reading aloud improves language skills, vocabulary, and verbal expression. It requires cognitive processes like word retrieval, organization, and articulation. Logical analysis (B) is not directly related to reading aloud. Object naming (C) focuses on identifying objects visually, not verbally. Visuospatial skills (D) involve understanding and manipulating visual information, not verbal expression. Reading aloud specifically targets verbal fluency by enhancing communication abilities and language processing.