CNA Basic Human Anatomy and Age-Related Changes

Question 1

Which age-related change to the cardiovascular system is most commonly observed in elderly patients?

Accepted Answer

Arteries become stiffer, leading to increased blood pressure

Answer

With aging, arterial walls lose elasticity and become stiffer (arteriosclerosis), causing the heart to work harder to pump blood and commonly resulting in elevated blood pressure (hypertension) in older adults.

Question 2

An elderly patient's skin appears thin, dry, and fragile. Which age-related change best explains these characteristics?

Accepted Answer

Decreased production of collagen and reduced subcutaneous fat

Answer

With aging, the skin produces less collagen (which provides structural strength), loses subcutaneous fat (which provides cushioning and insulation), and oil gland activity decreases, resulting in thin, dry, and fragile skin that is more easily injured.

Question 3

Which change in the musculoskeletal system is a normal part of the aging process?

Accepted Answer

Progressive loss of muscle mass and bone density

Answer

Normal aging brings sarcopenia (gradual loss of muscle mass and strength) and osteoporosis (decreased bone mineral density), both of which increase the risk of falls, fractures, and functional decline in elderly patients.

Question 4

An elderly resident frequently says they are not hungry and eats very little at meals. Which age-related change most likely contributes to decreased appetite in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Decreased sense of taste and smell

Answer

Aging causes a significant decrease in the number of taste buds and olfactory (smell) receptors, making food less appealing and flavorful, which directly contributes to reduced appetite and food intake in elderly patients.

Question 5

Why are elderly patients more susceptible to hypothermia (dangerously low body temperature) than younger adults?

Accepted Answer

They have decreased subcutaneous fat and reduced ability to shiver effectively

Answer

Elderly individuals have less subcutaneous fat for insulation, reduced muscle mass that limits heat-generating shivering, impaired circulation, and decreased thermoregulatory efficiency, all of which make them unable to maintain normal body temperature in cool environments.

CNA Practice Test

CNA Practice Test

CNA Basic Human Anatomy and Age-Related Changes