Midterm questions

Question 1

What are the normal physiological changes of the older adult for the musculoskeletal system?

Answer 1

• decreas in subQ tissue adn weight
• decreased muscle mass and strength
• bone demineralization (fracture more common)
• joints stiffen
• decreased flexibility and ROM
• height decreases 1 to 3 inches

Question 2

What are the normal physiological changes of the older adult for cognition?

Answer 2

• normal delay in response
• short term memory loss common
• long term memory in tact

Question 3

What are the normal physiological changes of the older adult for the neurologic system?

Answer 3

• cognitive and behavioral response may be delayed
• delayed reflex response
• temp, pain, pressure perception less efficient
• loss of sensation in extremities
• difficulty with balance, coordination, fine movements, and spatial orientation
• sleep at night typically shortens

Question 4

What are the normal physiological changes of the older adult for cardiovascular?

Answer 4

• blood vessels less elastic
• -peripheral pulses not always palpable
• lower extremeity edema and cooling may occur
• orthostatic hypotension may occue
• difficulty increasing HR and cardiac output with activity
• decreased cardiac output and reduced stroke volume

Question 5

What are the normal physiological changes of the older adult for respiratory system?

Answer 5

• diminished respiratory frequency
• lung mass decreases and residual volume increases
• pulmonary elasticity and ciliary action decreases
• RR may increase, diminished depth

Question 6

What are the normal physiological changes of the older adult for GI?

Answer 6

• malnutrition and anemia are common
• digestive juices diminish and nutrient absorption decreases
• decreased peristalsis
• decreased saliva production

Question 7

What are the normal physiological changes of the older adult for GU?

Answer 7

• decreased blood flow to kidneys
• decreased number of functioning nephrons (waste filtered/excreted more slowly)
• fluid/electrolyte balance fragile
• bladder capacity decreases by 50%
• 75% of men have BPH
• thinning and decrease of vaginal secretions