HCS 548 Foundations of Gerontology Final Exam Review Q & A 2026 (Complete And Verified Study material) (17pages) LEARNEXAMS

1. What is the primary physiological change associated with aging in the cardiovascular system? - A) Decreased heart rate variability - B) Increased arterial stiffness - C) Reduced blood volume - D) Enlarged heart chambers Answer: B) Increased arterial stiffness Rationale: Aging is commonly associated with increased arterial stiffness, which contributes to higher systolic blood pressure and cardiac workload. 2. Which theory of aging posits that aging results from the accumulation of random molecular damage? - A) Wear and Tear Theory - B) Free Radical Theory - C) Genetic Control Theory - D) Cellular Senescence Theory Answer: B) Free Radical Theory Rationale: The Free Radical Theory suggests that aging is caused by the accumulation of damage from free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells. 3. In geriatric patients, what is the most common risk factor for falls? - A) Cognitive impairment - B) Polypharmacy - C) Osteoporosis - D) Visual impairment Answer: B) Polypharmacy Rationale: Polypharmacy, or the use of multiple medications, can increase the risk of falls due to drug interactions and side effects such as dizziness or orthostatic hypotension. 4. Which intervention is most effective in preventing delirium in hospitalized older adults? - A) Routine use of restraints - B) Scheduled pain assessment and management - C) Frequent reorientation to time and place