Week 1
What is the main purpose of gerontological nursing?
A: To promote health and support maximal function in older adults.
Why is “elderspeak” harmful in communication with older adults?
It’s ageist, reduces self-esteem, and may increase resistance to care or withdrawal.
How does cross-linking theory explain physical changes like stiff joints or wrinkled skin?
A: Cross-linked proteins (like collagen) lose flexibility, leading to decreased tissue elasticity.
Why is it a problem if a nurse assumes all older adults from the same culture want the same care?
A: It stereotypes — culture is individual, not one-size-fits-all.
Q: Insomnia is classified into what three types?
Sleep-onset insomnia, sleep-maintenance insomnia, and nonrestorative sleep.
What two key principles define an age-friendly community and support older adults’ independence?
Accessibility and affordability
What communication strategy helps when speaking with an older adult with low vision?
A: Always identify yourself, use clear verbal cues, and don’t rely only on gestures or written instructions.
How does continuity theory explain why older adults often keep similar routines or hobbies throughout life?
A: People maintain consistent behaviors, personality, and habits across the lifespan.
Why is cultural proficiency harder to achieve than cultural competence?
Proficiency requires ongoing reflection, advocacy, and systems-level change, not just awareness.
Why is skin turgor an unreliable sign of dehydration in older adults?
A: Because older adults lose subcutaneous tissue, making skin less elastic.
What is one of the best ways health systems can meet the needs of an increasingly diverse older adult population?
Hire health care providers from a variety of cultural backgrounds.
Which chronic condition is the most common sensory impairment in Canadians over the age of 60?
Presbycusis
According to stochastic theories, aging is largely the result of what kind of processes?
Random damage and errors over time (e.g., mutations, wear and tear).
An older patient refuses a treatment for religious reasons. What should the nurse do first?
Explore their beliefs respectfully and collaborate to find acceptable alternatives.
In OSA, why is supine sleeping discouraged?
A: Airway collapse is worse when lying on the back.
In health care, how is wellness best understood in relation to health?
A: Health includes wellness, which involves one’s whole being.
What is the best approach for a nurse when communicating with an older adult who has aphasia?
A: Pay attention to the patient’s unique speech and word recognition patterns.
How does gerotranscendence theory explain changes in older adults’ priorities?
A: They shift from materialistic and social concerns toward reflection, spirituality, and meaning.
Why might an LGBTQ+ older adult be hesitant to disclose their identity in healthcare?
Past experiences of discrimination or fear of judgment from providers.
An older adult in LTC is at risk for dehydration but refuses to drink large glasses of water. What is one nursing strategy that can help increase fluid intake?
offering small frequent amounts, using preferred fluids, keeping drinks accessible, or using adaptive cups/straws
Before extending a hospital stay for a medically-ready older adult, what key gerontological risk should the nurse consider?
A: Hospitalization increases functional decline
Which type of aphasia produces fluent but meaningless speech, often called “word salad”?
A: Wernicke’s aphasia.
How does the telomere-telomerase theory explain cellular aging?
Each cell division shortens telomeres; once they’re too short, cells can’t divide, leading to aging
An older Indigenous patient expresses mistrust of the healthcare system. Why is it important for the nurse to acknowledge colonial history when providing care?
Because historical trauma (e.g., residential schools, systemic racism) shapes health inequities and mistrust; acknowledging it builds trust and supports culturally safe care.
An older adult post-stroke has incontinence. Which type is most likely and why?
A: Urge incontinence — neurologic damage causes bladder overactivity.