Late Adult Development and Health Quiz

Study Notes

People aged 61 and above have an average life expectancy of approximately 77 years.
Vital signs vary based on overall health, medical conditions, and medication.
Atherosclerosis can lead to aneurysms, decreased cardiac output, heart murmurs, and impeded blood flow.
Vascular system stiffens, leading to increased diastolic blood pressure and reduced elasticity of peripheral vessels.
Fatty tissue replaces bone marrow, hindering blood cell production and functional blood volume.
Respiratory changes make breathing more difficult: larger airway size, decreased lung elasticity, increased chest rigidity, and weaker intercostal muscles.
Reduced physical activity and declining endocrine system lead to weight gain and higher incidence of diabetes.
Sexual and reproductive changes occur for both men and women: decreased hormone production, loss of sexual desire, and structural changes.
Kidney filtration function declines significantly, and kidney mass decreases with decreased blood flow.
Older adults may experience nutritional deficiencies due to decreased sensation of taste buds, weaker teeth, decreased saliva production, and slower gastric motility.
Increased chance of gallstones and fecal incontinence due to loss of anal sphincter elasticity.
Central nervous system changes: brain shrinkage, loss of neurons, and slower motor and sensory neural networks.
Sleep patterns may become biphasic or two-phased, and the brain is at an increased risk for injury from trauma.
Peripheral nervous system changes: diminished sensation, slow reflexes, and decreased kinesthetic sense increase likelihood of falls and trauma.
General eye changes: restricted pupilary reaction, diminished visual acuity, restricted ocular movements, increased visual distortions, and sensitivity to glare.
Hearing loss is four times more common than vision loss, and older adults may experience loss of high-frequency hearing or deafness.
Eating becomes more challenging due to decreased sensations and weaker chewing abilities.

Description

Test your knowledge of changes and developments in late adulthood, including life expectancy, vital signs, medical conditions, and atherosclerosis. Explore how these factors relate to the health of individuals aged 61 and above.