Body System Changes
What happens to skin turgor in older adults?
It decreases due to loss of elasticity and subcutaneous fat.
Is slowed reaction time in an older adult normal or abnormal?
Normal.
What syndrome refers to a state of increased vulnerability due to age-related decline in multiple systems?
Frailty.
These two vitamins and minerals are essential for bone health and may prevent osteoporosis and decrease the risk of fracture.
Calcium and vitamin D
What’s the most important home safety modification to reduce fall risk in older adults? (while in their home)
Removing loose rugs and improving lighting.
What age-related change occurs in the respiratory system that reduces vital capacity?
Decreased cough reflex and ciliary activity: increased chest wall rigidity: fewer alveoli: increased airway resistance.
Is confusion a normal sign of aging?
Abnormal—it may indicate delirium, dementia, or depression
What is a common risk of polypharmacy in older adults?
Adverse drug reactions and increased fall risk.
A daily intake of 25 g of __________ is recommended and must be combined with adequate amounts of fluid.
Fiber
During assessment, you notice bruising in various healing stages. (pt not a bleeding risk). What should you consider?
Possible elder abuse—requires further investigation.
Why are older adults more prone to orthostatic hypotension?
Decreased baroreceptor sensitivity in the cardiovascular system.
Baroreceptors constantly monitor how much blood you have in your blood vessels and what the pressure is inside them.
An 80-year-old reports occasional constipation. Is this expected?
Normal—due to slower GI motility.
What is the most common cause of injury-related death in older adults?
Falls.
This macronutrient is crucial role in wound repair and skin integrity, synthesizes immune cells and antibodies for infection prevention.
Protein
A 78-year-old reports taking 10 medications daily. What’s your priority nursing action?
Conduct a medication reconciliation and assess for polypharmacy risks.
Consider reviewing Beers Criteria
Which musculoskeletal changes contribute to an increased fall risk?
Decreased bone density, muscle mass, strength, and degenerative joint changes.
Is urinary incontinence a normal part of aging?
No, it's common but not considered normal and should be assessed.
What is one effective communication strategy for hearing-impaired older adults?
Speak clearly and slowly, face the patient, reduce background noise.
This dietary approach is a recommended eating plan to assist with maintenance of optimal weight and management of hypertension. This plan consists of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, poultry, fish, and restriction of salt intake.
Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH)
What vital sign change in an older adult suggests dehydration or blood loss when standing?
A drop in blood pressure—orthostatic hypotension.
Name two sensory changes that affect communication with older adults.
Loss of hearing acuity for high frequency tones and decreased accommodation to near/far vision.
Is it normal for an older adult to lose the ability to recall long-term memories?
No—long-term memory is generally preserved in normal aging.
Which condition commonly presents in older adults with chest pain after eating, morning hoarseness, and chronic cough?
GERD (Gastroesphogeal Reflex Disease)
What patient education should be provided for an older adult with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?
Eating Pattern Modifications
Meal size and timing:
Positioning:
A patient with mild dementia begins wandering at night. What intervention can enhance safety?
Install door alarms or use a bed alarm to alert caregivers.
What might this be considered?