Aging Physiology & Nutritional Needs Flashcards

The calcium RDA for men aged 51–70 is:

Answer: 1,000 mg/day

Men 51–70 need 1,000 mg/day, rising to 1,200 mg/day after 70, while women need 1,200 mg/day after 50.

Why does the iron RDA for women fall after age 50?

Answer: Menstrual iron losses stop after menopause

After menopause the RDA drops from 18 mg to 8 mg because menstrual blood loss ends.

Xerostomia in older adults is most often caused by:

Answer: Medications with anticholinergic effects

Medication side effects, especially anticholinergics, are the leading cause of dry mouth in older adults.

Age-related decline in taste and smell most commonly leads older adults to:

Answer: Add more salt and sugar to enhance flavor

Reduced chemosensory perception often prompts heavier seasoning with salt and sugar, which can worsen chronic disease.

Which age-related gastrointestinal change most contributes to early satiety?

Answer: Reduced adaptive relaxation of the gastric fundus

Reduced fundic relaxation makes food move to the antrum sooner, triggering early fullness.

Glucose tolerance in older adults typically:

Answer: Declines, largely due to increased insulin resistance

Insulin resistance, partly from sarcopenia and visceral fat, impairs glucose tolerance with age.

Long-term proton pump inhibitor use in older adults increases risk of deficiency in:

Answer: Vitamin B12 and magnesium

Acid suppression impairs B12 release from food, and long-term PPIs are linked to hypomagnesemia.