Senior Health and Wellness Flashcards

Which screening test is recommended annually for adults aged 65 and older to detect cognitive decline early?

Answer: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)

The MMSE is a widely used standardized tool to screen for cognitive impairment in older adults.

What is the primary cause of preventable hospitalizations among seniors related to medication management?

Answer: Polypharmacy and adverse drug interactions

Polypharmacy—taking five or more medications—significantly increases the risk of adverse drug interactions and hospitalizations in older adults.

Which type of exercise is MOST effective for improving bone density in older adults?

Answer: Weight-bearing and resistance exercise

Weight-bearing and resistance exercises stimulate bone remodeling and are most effective at improving bone density in seniors.

What does the acronym 'POLST' stand for in senior care planning?

Answer: Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment

POLST is a medical order form that translates patient wishes about end-of-life care into actionable physician orders.

Which vitamin deficiency is most commonly associated with increased fall risk and fractures in older adults?

Answer: Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency impairs calcium absorption and muscle function, significantly increasing fall and fracture risk in seniors.

A senior client reports difficulty sleeping, decreased appetite, and loss of interest in hobbies. Which condition should a CSA first consider?

Answer: Depression

These classic symptoms—anhedonia, sleep disruption, and appetite changes—are hallmark signs of depression in older adults.

Which of the following best describes 'sarcopenia' as it relates to senior health?

Answer: Age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength

Sarcopenia is the progressive loss of muscle mass, strength, and function associated with aging, increasing fall and disability risk.