Nokea
Which of the following is an indicator of dementia rather than normal aging?
- A. Difficulty recalling recent events
- B. Increased forgetfulness
- C. Forgetting names of familiar people
- D. Memory loss affecting daily functioning
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because memory loss affecting daily functioning is a key indicator of dementia, not normal aging. Normal aging may involve some forgetfulness, but it typically does not significantly impact daily activities. Choice A is incorrect because difficulty recalling recent events can occur in both normal aging and dementia. Choice B is incorrect as increased forgetfulness is a common feature of aging and may not necessarily indicate dementia. Choice C is incorrect as forgetting names of familiar people can also be a normal part of aging and does not solely point to dementia. Memory loss affecting daily functioning is a more specific and severe symptom that strongly suggests dementia over normal aging.
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The nurse is teaching an older client about measures to prevent constipation. What statement made by the client indicates further teaching is needed?
- A. "I'll walk 1-2 miles everyday"
- B. "I need to decrease fiber in my diet"
- C. "I have a bowel movement everyday"
- D. "I drink 6-8 glasses of water everyday"
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because decreasing fiber in the diet can actually worsen constipation. Fiber helps promote regular bowel movements by adding bulk to the stool. Walking and staying hydrated (choices A and D) are effective strategies to prevent constipation. Having a daily bowel movement (choice C) is a positive sign of bowel health. By choosing to decrease fiber intake, the client may inadvertently reduce the effectiveness of their bowel movements, leading to constipation.
Which condition is often misdiagnosed as depression in older adults?
- A. Chronic fatigue syndrome
- B. Dementia
- C. Anemia
- D. Sleep apnea
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dementia. Older adults often experience cognitive decline, memory loss, and behavioral changes that can be mistaken for symptoms of depression. Dementia is a common condition in the elderly that can be misdiagnosed due to overlapping symptoms such as apathy, social withdrawal, and changes in sleep patterns. Chronic fatigue syndrome (A), anemia (C), and sleep apnea (D) may also present with symptoms of fatigue and sleep disturbances, but they are less likely to be confused with depression in older adults compared to dementia.
Which factor is most closely associated with cognitive decline in older adults?
- A. Genetic predisposition to neurodegenerative diseases
- B. Limited physical activity and poor nutrition
- C. Social engagement and mental stimulation
- D. Early retirement and lack of work-related stress
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.
What is the primary reason older adults with cognitive impairments experience difficulties with medication adherence?
- A. Lack of understanding of the importance of medication
- B. Cognitive decline affecting memory and decision-making
- C. Physical inability to manage medications
- D. Fear of side effects or drug interactions
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cognitive decline affecting memory and decision-making. Older adults with cognitive impairments, such as dementia, may struggle with remembering to take their medications as prescribed and making sound decisions regarding their medication regimen due to cognitive decline. Memory deficits can lead to missed doses, while impaired decision-making can result in improper adherence. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as the primary reason for medication non-adherence in this population is the cognitive decline impacting memory and decision-making, rather than lack of understanding, physical inability, or fear of side effects.
The nurse provides opportunities for nursing home residents to read aloud to others. Which cognitive skill is this nursing intervention most likely to improve?
- A. Verbal fluency
- B. Logical analysis
- C. Object naming
- D. Visuospatial skills
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Verbal fluency is the correct answer because reading aloud improves language skills, vocabulary, and verbal expression. It requires cognitive processes like word retrieval, organization, and articulation. Logical analysis (B) is not directly related to reading aloud. Object naming (C) focuses on identifying objects visually, not verbally. Visuospatial skills (D) involve understanding and manipulating visual information, not verbal expression. Reading aloud specifically targets verbal fluency by enhancing communication abilities and language processing.