CSS Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CSS facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. The 'teach-back' method in senior care education is used to: → Confirm a senior's understanding by having them explain information back
2. What is the best strategy for managing debt during retirement? → Focusing on high-interest debt while managing long-term expenses
3. What is the 'Medicare donut hole' (coverage gap) in Part D? → A temporary gap where beneficiaries pay more for prescription drugs after initial coverage
4. What is the primary advantage of a revocable living trust over a will? → It avoids probate
5. Which Medicaid waiver program allows states to provide home and community-based services as an alternative to nursing home placement? → 1915(c) Home and Community-Based Services Waiver
6. Which Medicare Special Enrollment Period (SEP) allows workers to enroll in Medicare without penalty after retiring from a job with employer coverage? → An 8-month SEP beginning when employer coverage ends or employment ends
7. When conducting a home safety assessment for an aging-in-place client, which area requires evaluation for lighting adequacy, trip hazards, and stair safety? → Every area of the home, including entryways, hallways, stairs, bathrooms, and kitchen
8. What Medicaid planning concept refers to the legally defined period during which transferred assets can still count against eligibility? → Look-back period
9. What is 'reminiscence therapy' and how is it used in memory care? → Using life history, music, and photos to stimulate memories and improve wellbeing
10. Which tax-efficient retirement income source is NOT included in Medicare IRMAA income calculations? → Roth IRA qualified distributions
11. What are the recommended daily fluid intake goals for older adults to prevent dehydration? → Approximately 6–8 cups (48–64 oz) of fluid per day
12. Which type of elder abuse involves misuse of an older person's money or property? → Financial exploitation
13. Which of the following is a risk factor for delirium in hospitalized older adults? → Use of physical restraints and sleep deprivation
14. A bond ladder is a fixed-income strategy in which bonds are purchased with: → Staggered maturities so that bonds mature at regular intervals
15. An older adult who moves in with an adult child and receives care in exchange for rent-free living is an example of which housing arrangement? → Multigenerational Living
16. What is a risk assessment matrix? → A tool that rates risks by likelihood and severity
17. What is the main benefit of dividend-paying stocks in a senior's portfolio? → A regular income stream that can supplement other retirement income
18. What does the Medicare 'donut hole' (coverage gap) refer to in Part D prescription drug coverage? → A coverage gap where beneficiaries historically paid higher out-of-pocket costs for drugs
19. Which of the following is a key component of a risk management plan? → Risk identification and assessment
20. According to US government data, approximately what percentage of people turning 65 today will need some form of long-term care? → 70%
21. Which validated screening tool is widely used to detect cognitive impairment in clinical settings? → Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)
22. Which HUD housing designation allows a community to legally restrict residency to persons 62 years of age or older? → 62+ Age-Restricted Housing
23. When helping a senior evaluate 'aging in place,' which home modification is MOST commonly recommended to prevent falls? → Adding grab bars in bathrooms and showers
24. What is the '5 M's of Geriatrics' framework used in senior health assessment? → Memory, Mobility, Medications, Multi-complexity, and Matters Most (goals)
25. What is 'sundowning' in the context of dementia care? → Increased confusion or agitation in late afternoon/evening
26. Which housing model pairs older homeowners with younger renters who provide services such as transportation or household help in exchange for reduced rent? → Homesharing Program
27. What is the federal estate tax exemption amount per individual for 2024? → $13.61 million
28. What is risk tolerance? → The degree of risk the organization is willing to accept
29. The Medicare Part B late enrollment penalty applies when a beneficiary: → Delays enrollment without qualifying creditable coverage
30. A senior considering a move to a board and care home should be informed that this setting typically provides: → Room, board, and supervision in a small residential setting with non-medical personal care