The nurse is performing a basic assessment on an older client. Which of the following is a common age-related change?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Aging causes decreased collagen production, leading to decreased skin elasticity and thinning. 2. Loss of subcutaneous fat contributes to the appearance of aging skin. 3. Wrinkles and sagging are common signs of decreased skin elasticity in older adults. 4. Increased muscle mass, increased cardiac output, and increased renal filtration rate are not typical age-related changes. Summary: Skin changes such as decreased elasticity and thinning are common in older adults due to reduced collagen production and loss of subcutaneous fat. Increased muscle mass, cardiac output, and renal filtration rate are not typical age-related changes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because sarcopenia, which is the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength, directly impacts balance and mobility in older adults. Muscle weakness from sarcopenia reduces stability and coordination, increasing the risk of falls. This affects functional independence as it limits the ability to perform daily activities safely. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as sarcopenia primarily affects muscle mass and strength, not body fat, lung capacity, or joint stiffness.

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: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Family support and involvement. This is crucial in determining the effectiveness of rehabilitation after a stroke because a supportive and involved family can provide emotional support, encouragement, and assistance with activities of daily living. This positively impacts the patient's motivation, compliance with treatment, and overall well-being, leading to better rehabilitation outcomes. A: Age of the patient - While age can be a factor in stroke recovery, it is not the most important factor as older patients can still make significant progress with proper rehabilitation and support. C: Number of medications prescribed - While medication management is important in stroke recovery, it is not the most crucial factor for rehabilitation effectiveness. D: Patient’s previous health conditions - While previous health conditions can impact stroke recovery, the level of family support and involvement plays a more significant role in determining the effectiveness of rehabilitation after a stroke.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because health refers to a state of physical, mental, and social well-being, encompassing attitudes and behaviors. Choice B is incorrect as previous generations did consider illness prevention. Choice C is incorrect as wellness and self-actualization can also be influenced by genetics and environment. Choice D is incorrect as wellness can still be achieved through various aspects even if one's health is compromised.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because limited physical activity and poor nutrition have been consistently linked to cognitive decline in older adults. Physical activity promotes blood flow to the brain, which helps with cognitive function. Additionally, a balanced diet rich in nutrients supports brain health. Genetic predisposition (A) can play a role but is not the most closely associated factor. Social engagement and mental stimulation (C) are beneficial for cognitive health but not the primary factor for decline. Early retirement and lack of work-related stress (D) are not directly linked to cognitive decline.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Difficulty reading small print and decreased ability to focus on objects at varying distances. As people age, the lens of the eye becomes less flexible, leading to presbyopia, which results in difficulty seeing close objects clearly. This explains the client's decreased ability to accommodate. This choice is correct because presbyopia specifically affects near vision, making it harder to read small print and focus on objects up close. A: Blurring of vision due to increased intraocular pressure - This choice is incorrect because presbyopia is not related to increased intraocular pressure. C: Narrowing of field of vision-loss of peripheral vision - This choice is incorrect because presbyopia does not affect peripheral vision; it specifically impacts near vision. D: Sensitivity to light (photophobia) - This choice is incorrect because presbyopia does not cause sensitivity to light; it is solely related to difficulty in focusing on near objects.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because pursed lip breathing helps prevent airway collapse by maintaining positive pressure in the airways, reduces anxiety by promoting relaxation, and enhances effective breathing by improving oxygen exchange. Choice A is incorrect as pursed lip breathing does not directly prevent the build-up of secretions. Choice B is incorrect as comfort is not the primary purpose of pursed lip breathing. Choice C is incorrect as while pursed lip breathing can improve respiratory muscle function, its primary benefit lies in preventing airway collapse, reducing anxiety, and promoting effective breathing.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Alzheimer's disease. It is the most common type of dementia in older adults, accounting for around 60-80% of cases. Alzheimer's is characterized by the presence of beta-amyloid plaques and tau protein tangles in the brain, leading to memory loss and cognitive decline. Vascular dementia (B) is caused by impaired blood flow to the brain, Lewy body dementia (C) is characterized by abnormal protein deposits in the brain, and Frontotemporal dementia (D) affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to changes in behavior and personality. However, in older adults, Alzheimer's disease is the most prevalent form of dementia due to its widespread impact on memory and cognition.