Which of the following interventions has been shown to delay the onset of dementia in older adults?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Consistent mental and physical activity. Engaging in mental and physical activities can help improve cognitive function, increase brain plasticity, and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Regular stimulation of the brain through activities like puzzles, reading, and learning new skills can help delay the onset of dementia. Physical activity also promotes overall brain health by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect: A: Strict dietary restrictions may have some benefits for overall health, but there is limited evidence to suggest that it directly delays the onset of dementia. C: Regular social isolation can actually increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, as social interaction is important for brain health. D: Pharmacologic interventions to control hypertension may be important for overall health, but they are not specifically shown to delay the onset of dementia in older adults.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) combined with antidepressant medications, for treating depression in older adults. CBT helps address negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with depression, while antidepressant medications provide physiological support. Combining both approaches has been shown to be more effective than either treatment alone in older adults. A: Long-term pharmacological therapy with SSRIs may have side effects and limited effectiveness in older adults. C: Antidepressant medications alone may not address the underlying psychological factors contributing to depression. D: Psychodynamic therapy may not be as effective in older adults as it focuses on unresolved issues from early life rather than targeting current depressive symptoms.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer, B, is the primary role of the gerontological nurse when providing end-of-life care for a terminally ill older adult. This choice emphasizes the importance of pain management, comfort care, and preserving the patient's dignity. The nurse's focus should be on enhancing the quality of life and ensuring the patient's comfort rather than pursuing aggressive curative treatments (A). Administering sedatives (C) should be based on individual needs and preferences, not as a blanket approach. While family involvement is crucial, the nurse should still advocate for the patient's autonomy and preferences, rather than solely relying on family decisions (D).

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: high likelihood of orthostatic hypotension upon rising quickly. Orthostatic hypotension is a common issue in the elderly, causing a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up quickly, leading to dizziness and falls. This factor directly contributes to the high incidence of falls in the elderly. Increased muscle mass and tone (A) actually reduce the risk of falls, while improving eyesight in dim light (C) would decrease the risk. Constipation (D) is not directly related to falls in the elderly.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: dehydration. Mr. J's symptoms of flu-like illness, diarrhea, vomiting, confusion, lethargy, dry skin, brown tongue, sunken cheeks, and concentrated urine are indicative of severe dehydration. Dehydration can lead to electrolyte imbalances, decreased blood volume, and impaired organ function, resulting in confusion and lethargy. Skin changes, dry mucous membranes, and concentrated urine are also classic signs of dehydration. The other choices (A, C, D) do not align with the constellation of symptoms presented by Mr. J and are less likely based on the information provided.