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. A widow age 60 wants to know when she can receive survivor benefits on her deceased spouse's Social Security record. What is the minimum age? → 60 (standard minimum)
4. What is the 'Medicare donut hole' (coverage gap) in Part D? → A temporary gap where beneficiaries pay more for prescription drugs after initial coverage
5. What is the primary advantage of a revocable living trust over a will? → It avoids probate
6. 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
7. 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
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. Under the COSO ERM framework, which component involves defining the desired culture and setting the tone at the top regarding risk? → Governance and Culture
12. 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
13. Which type of elder abuse involves misuse of an older person's money or property? → Financial exploitation
14. Which of the following is a risk factor for delirium in hospitalized older adults? → Use of physical restraints and sleep deprivation
15. A bond ladder is a fixed-income strategy in which bonds are purchased with: → Staggered maturities so that bonds mature at regular intervals
16. 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
17. What is a risk assessment matrix? → A tool that rates risks by likelihood and severity
18. What is the main benefit of dividend-paying stocks in a senior's portfolio? → A regular income stream that can supplement other retirement income
19. 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
20. Which of the following is a key component of a risk management plan? → Risk identification and assessment
21. According to US government data, approximately what percentage of people turning 65 today will need some form of long-term care? → 70%
22. Which validated screening tool is widely used to detect cognitive impairment in clinical settings? → Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)
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. Which risk response strategy involves sharing risk with a third party, such as through insurance or outsourcing? → Risk transfer
25. The concept of 'defense in depth' in risk management refers to: → Implementing multiple layers of controls so that if one fails, others remain effective
26. What is the '5 M's of Geriatrics' framework used in senior health assessment? → Memory, Mobility, Medications, Multi-complexity, and Matters Most (goals)
27. What is 'sundowning' in the context of dementia care? → Increased confusion or agitation in late afternoon/evening
28. 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
29. A client aged 73 has a traditional IRA worth $500,000. The IRS Uniform Lifetime Table factor for age 73 is 26.5. What is the approximate RMD? → $18,868
30. What is the federal estate tax exemption amount per individual for 2024? → $13.61 million