Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Substance Use Disorders Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Substance Use Disorders related questions and content

Which of the following is a true statement regarding alcohol use in the older adult population?

  • A. Older adults who drink exhibit less impairment.
  • B. Older adults have a higher metabolism which leads to alcohol toxicity.
  • C. Alcoholism may be difficult to identify in older adults.
  • D. Dementia may be associated with high ingestion of alcohol for 10 or more years.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Alcoholism may be difficult to identify in older adults because symptoms such as tremors, unsteady gait, or memory loss mimic changes associated with aging. Older adults who drink exhibit more impairment. Older adults have a slower metabolism. Dementia may be associated with heavy ingestion of alcohol for 10 or more years, or with ingestion of other toxic substances, including heavy metals.