CNA Basic Human Anatomy and Age-Related Changes Flashcards
6 cards from real CNA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 CNA Basic Human Anatomy and Age-Related Changes flashcards as text
Which age-related change commonly affects the cardiovascular system in older adults?
Answer: Arteries stiffen and blood pressure tends to rise
As people age, arteries lose elasticity and become stiffer (arteriosclerosis), which commonly leads to higher blood pressure. Resting heart rate does not significantly change with normal aging.
An older resident feels cold even when the room is warm. This is most likely due to which age-related change?
Answer: Decreased ability to regulate body temperature
Older adults have a decreased ability to regulate body temperature due to reduced metabolic rate, less subcutaneous fat, and diminished circulation. They are more sensitive to cold and heat.
Which sensory change is most commonly associated with normal aging?
Answer: Decreased visual acuity and hearing loss
Normal aging typically brings decreased visual acuity (often requiring glasses) and progressive hearing loss (presbycusis). These changes are among the most common sensory changes in older adults.
Older adults are at higher risk for bone fractures due to which age-related change?
Answer: Decreased bone density (osteoporosis)
Bone density decreases with age, particularly in postmenopausal women, leading to osteoporosis. This makes bones more fragile and increases the risk of fractures from minor falls or injuries.
Which age-related change to the skin increases a resident's risk of pressure injuries?
Answer: Skin becomes thinner, drier, and less elastic
Aging causes the skin to become thinner, drier, and less elastic due to decreased oil and sweat gland activity and reduced collagen production. This makes it more vulnerable to breakdown and pressure injuries.
A CNA notices an older resident takes longer to react when spoken to. This may be due to which age-related neurological change?
Answer: Decreased nerve conduction velocity and slower processing speed
Normal aging slows nerve conduction velocity and cognitive processing speed, meaning older adults may take longer to respond. This is a normal change and should not be assumed to be dementia.