Galen College of Nursing | Concepts of Aging and Chronic Illness in Nursing
NUR 257 Examination 1 - Aging &
Chronic Illness Nursing 2026/2027 |
Verified Questions
Galen College of Nursing | Concepts of Aging and Chronic Illness | Professional Nursing Candidates
50 Verified Questions | 4 Core Domains | Academic Year 2026/2027
Prepared by
Galen College of Nursing | Concepts of Aging and Chronic Illness in Nursing
Examination 1 - Aging & Chronic Illness Nursing Actual Exam | Academic Year 2026/2027
NUR 257 Examination 1 - Aging & Chronic Illness Nursing 2026/2027 | Verified Questions
,INTRODUCTION
This document contains 50 Verified Questions developed to support candidates preparing for NUR 257
Examination 1 on Aging & Chronic Illness Nursing at Galen College of Nursing for the 2026/2027 academic
year. The content is original and comprehensively addresses the four core domains of the official course
curriculum: (1) Theories of Aging & Healthy Aging Concepts, (2) Physiologic Changes of Aging, (3) Chronic
Illness Management & Functional Assessment, and (4) Psychosocial, Cultural & Ethical Considerations. Each
question is designed to reinforce the official NUR 257 Examination 1 - Aging & Chronic Illness Nursing course
objectives and to support candidate readiness for the actual exam and clinical proficiency in gerontological
nursing care. The questions and rationales draw on foundational gerontological nursing frameworks and
chronic illness nursing methodology to build clinical mastery in caring for older adults across the wellness–
illness continuum. Candidates are encouraged to use these Verified Questions to strengthen their
understanding of evidence-based care for aging populations and to consolidate knowledge required for
competent, compassionate gerontological nursing care.
ACTUAL QUESTIONS
Domain 1: Theories of Aging & Healthy Aging Concepts
Question 1. Which biologic theory of aging proposes that cumulative damage to DNA, proteins,
and lipids from unstable oxygen-containing molecules contributes to cellular senescence over
time?
A. Free radical theory, which posits oxidative stress from reactive oxygen species causes cellular damage.
B. Wear-and-tear theory, which attributes aging to progressive mechanical deterioration of body
systems.
C. Programmed longevity theory, which suggests aging follows a predetermined genetic timetable.
D. Immunological theory, which focuses on declining immune function as the primary aging mechanism.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The free radical (oxidative stress) theory of aging identifies reactive oxygen species produced
during normal metabolism as the primary driver of cumulative cellular damage affecting DNA, proteins,
and lipids. This theory forms the foundation for nutritional recommendations emphasizing antioxidant
intake to support healthy aging, consistent with Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging curriculum on
biologic aging theories.
Question 2. A nurse is educating an older adult about the psychosocial theory of aging that
emphasizes continued participation in meaningful activities and social roles to maintain life
satisfaction. Which theory is the nurse describing?
A. Disengagement theory, which describes mutual withdrawal between older adults and society.
B. Continuity theory, which focuses on maintaining consistent personality and coping patterns across the
lifespan.
C. Activity theory, which posits that remaining engaged in social and productive roles promotes well-
being.
D. Social exchange theory, which frames social interactions in terms of costs and rewards.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Activity theory, developed by Havighurst and colleagues, asserts that older adults achieve
greater life satisfaction when they remain actively engaged in meaningful social, recreational, and
productive pursuits. The nurse uses this theory when encouraging patients to participate in community
activities, hobbies, and volunteer work as part of healthy aging promotion, in alignment with Galen NUR
257 course objectives on psychosocial aging theories.
Question 3. According to the programmed theory of aging, which cellular mechanism is
primarily responsible for the predetermined limit on cellular replication known as the
Hayflick limit?
A. Accumulation of cross-linked proteins that impair tissue elasticity and function.
NUR 257 Examination 1 - Aging & Chronic Illness Nursing 2026/2027 | Verified Questions
, B. Progressive shortening of telomeres with each cell division until cells can no longer replicate.
C. Declining efficiency of DNA repair mechanisms leading to genomic instability.
D. Dysregulation of neuroendocrine signals controlling metabolic rate and circadian rhythms.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The programmed (cellular clock) theory of aging identifies telomere shortening as the biologic
mechanism underlying the Hayflick limit—the finite number of times a cell can divide before entering
senescence. Telomeres, protective caps at chromosome ends, shorten with each division; when they reach a
critical length, cellular replication ceases. This theory informs understanding of age-related tissue
degeneration and is a core concept in gerontological nursing curricula.
Question 4. When planning health promotion for an older adult population, which approach
best reflects the concept of healthy aging as defined by the World Health Organization?
A. Emphasizing the total absence of disease or disability as the primary goal for all older adults.
B. Focusing exclusively on extending lifespan through aggressive medical screening and intervention.
C. Promoting uniformity in aging experiences by applying standardized care protocols across all older
adult populations.
D. Creating environments and opportunities that support functional ability, well-being, and quality of
life across the older adult years.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The WHO framework for healthy aging centers on developing and maintaining functional
ability that enables well-being in older age, rather than the absence of disease. This involves creating age-
friendly environments, ensuring person-centered care, and supporting intrinsic capacity across physical,
mental, and social domains. The nurse applies this model by tailoring interventions to individual goals and
circumstances rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach, as emphasized in Miller's Nursing for
Wellness in Older Adults.
Question 5. A 72-year-old patient reports reduced social contact since retiring from a long-
held career but expresses satisfaction with increased time spent gardening, reading, and
occasional visits with grandchildren. The nurse recognizes this patient's pattern is most
consistent with which aging theory?
A. Continuity theory, because the patient is using familiar coping strategies and adapting previous
interests to retirement.
B. Activity theory, because the patient has replaced work roles with other meaningful activities.
C. Disengagement theory, because the patient has voluntarily reduced social contacts.
D. Age stratification theory, because the patient's behavior reflects norms for the 70–75-year-old cohort.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Continuity theory (Atchley) proposes that older adults maintain psychological well-being by
continuing lifelong patterns of behavior, personality, and coping as they age, adapting familiar roles and
interests rather than replacing them entirely. This patient's transition from structured work to gardening
and reading—interests likely developed earlier in life—demonstrates continuity of identity and preferred
lifestyle. The nurse supports healthy aging by recognizing and reinforcing these adaptive continuities
rather than imposing activity expectations.
Question 6. The nurse is presenting immunosenescence as part of an educational session for
older adults. Which statement accurately reflects the immunological theory of aging?
A. The immune system becomes overactive with age, leading to increased autoimmune responses that
damage healthy tissue.
B. Chronic low-grade inflammation (inflamm-aging) is exclusively caused by dietary factors rather than
immune system changes.
C. Thymic involution and reduced T-cell production result in decreased ability to fight newly
encountered infections and mount vaccine responses.
D. Bone marrow production of B cells increases significantly with age, compensating for T-cell decline.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The immunological theory of aging describes progressive changes in immune function with age,
most notably thymic involution (shrinkage) that reduces production of naive T cells. This results in
NUR 257 Examination 1 - Aging & Chronic Illness Nursing 2026/2027 | Verified Questions
NUR 257 Examination 1 - Aging &
Chronic Illness Nursing 2026/2027 |
Verified Questions
Galen College of Nursing | Concepts of Aging and Chronic Illness | Professional Nursing Candidates
50 Verified Questions | 4 Core Domains | Academic Year 2026/2027
Prepared by
Galen College of Nursing | Concepts of Aging and Chronic Illness in Nursing
Examination 1 - Aging & Chronic Illness Nursing Actual Exam | Academic Year 2026/2027
NUR 257 Examination 1 - Aging & Chronic Illness Nursing 2026/2027 | Verified Questions
,INTRODUCTION
This document contains 50 Verified Questions developed to support candidates preparing for NUR 257
Examination 1 on Aging & Chronic Illness Nursing at Galen College of Nursing for the 2026/2027 academic
year. The content is original and comprehensively addresses the four core domains of the official course
curriculum: (1) Theories of Aging & Healthy Aging Concepts, (2) Physiologic Changes of Aging, (3) Chronic
Illness Management & Functional Assessment, and (4) Psychosocial, Cultural & Ethical Considerations. Each
question is designed to reinforce the official NUR 257 Examination 1 - Aging & Chronic Illness Nursing course
objectives and to support candidate readiness for the actual exam and clinical proficiency in gerontological
nursing care. The questions and rationales draw on foundational gerontological nursing frameworks and
chronic illness nursing methodology to build clinical mastery in caring for older adults across the wellness–
illness continuum. Candidates are encouraged to use these Verified Questions to strengthen their
understanding of evidence-based care for aging populations and to consolidate knowledge required for
competent, compassionate gerontological nursing care.
ACTUAL QUESTIONS
Domain 1: Theories of Aging & Healthy Aging Concepts
Question 1. Which biologic theory of aging proposes that cumulative damage to DNA, proteins,
and lipids from unstable oxygen-containing molecules contributes to cellular senescence over
time?
A. Free radical theory, which posits oxidative stress from reactive oxygen species causes cellular damage.
B. Wear-and-tear theory, which attributes aging to progressive mechanical deterioration of body
systems.
C. Programmed longevity theory, which suggests aging follows a predetermined genetic timetable.
D. Immunological theory, which focuses on declining immune function as the primary aging mechanism.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The free radical (oxidative stress) theory of aging identifies reactive oxygen species produced
during normal metabolism as the primary driver of cumulative cellular damage affecting DNA, proteins,
and lipids. This theory forms the foundation for nutritional recommendations emphasizing antioxidant
intake to support healthy aging, consistent with Ebersole & Hess' Toward Healthy Aging curriculum on
biologic aging theories.
Question 2. A nurse is educating an older adult about the psychosocial theory of aging that
emphasizes continued participation in meaningful activities and social roles to maintain life
satisfaction. Which theory is the nurse describing?
A. Disengagement theory, which describes mutual withdrawal between older adults and society.
B. Continuity theory, which focuses on maintaining consistent personality and coping patterns across the
lifespan.
C. Activity theory, which posits that remaining engaged in social and productive roles promotes well-
being.
D. Social exchange theory, which frames social interactions in terms of costs and rewards.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Activity theory, developed by Havighurst and colleagues, asserts that older adults achieve
greater life satisfaction when they remain actively engaged in meaningful social, recreational, and
productive pursuits. The nurse uses this theory when encouraging patients to participate in community
activities, hobbies, and volunteer work as part of healthy aging promotion, in alignment with Galen NUR
257 course objectives on psychosocial aging theories.
Question 3. According to the programmed theory of aging, which cellular mechanism is
primarily responsible for the predetermined limit on cellular replication known as the
Hayflick limit?
A. Accumulation of cross-linked proteins that impair tissue elasticity and function.
NUR 257 Examination 1 - Aging & Chronic Illness Nursing 2026/2027 | Verified Questions
, B. Progressive shortening of telomeres with each cell division until cells can no longer replicate.
C. Declining efficiency of DNA repair mechanisms leading to genomic instability.
D. Dysregulation of neuroendocrine signals controlling metabolic rate and circadian rhythms.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The programmed (cellular clock) theory of aging identifies telomere shortening as the biologic
mechanism underlying the Hayflick limit—the finite number of times a cell can divide before entering
senescence. Telomeres, protective caps at chromosome ends, shorten with each division; when they reach a
critical length, cellular replication ceases. This theory informs understanding of age-related tissue
degeneration and is a core concept in gerontological nursing curricula.
Question 4. When planning health promotion for an older adult population, which approach
best reflects the concept of healthy aging as defined by the World Health Organization?
A. Emphasizing the total absence of disease or disability as the primary goal for all older adults.
B. Focusing exclusively on extending lifespan through aggressive medical screening and intervention.
C. Promoting uniformity in aging experiences by applying standardized care protocols across all older
adult populations.
D. Creating environments and opportunities that support functional ability, well-being, and quality of
life across the older adult years.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The WHO framework for healthy aging centers on developing and maintaining functional
ability that enables well-being in older age, rather than the absence of disease. This involves creating age-
friendly environments, ensuring person-centered care, and supporting intrinsic capacity across physical,
mental, and social domains. The nurse applies this model by tailoring interventions to individual goals and
circumstances rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach, as emphasized in Miller's Nursing for
Wellness in Older Adults.
Question 5. A 72-year-old patient reports reduced social contact since retiring from a long-
held career but expresses satisfaction with increased time spent gardening, reading, and
occasional visits with grandchildren. The nurse recognizes this patient's pattern is most
consistent with which aging theory?
A. Continuity theory, because the patient is using familiar coping strategies and adapting previous
interests to retirement.
B. Activity theory, because the patient has replaced work roles with other meaningful activities.
C. Disengagement theory, because the patient has voluntarily reduced social contacts.
D. Age stratification theory, because the patient's behavior reflects norms for the 70–75-year-old cohort.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Continuity theory (Atchley) proposes that older adults maintain psychological well-being by
continuing lifelong patterns of behavior, personality, and coping as they age, adapting familiar roles and
interests rather than replacing them entirely. This patient's transition from structured work to gardening
and reading—interests likely developed earlier in life—demonstrates continuity of identity and preferred
lifestyle. The nurse supports healthy aging by recognizing and reinforcing these adaptive continuities
rather than imposing activity expectations.
Question 6. The nurse is presenting immunosenescence as part of an educational session for
older adults. Which statement accurately reflects the immunological theory of aging?
A. The immune system becomes overactive with age, leading to increased autoimmune responses that
damage healthy tissue.
B. Chronic low-grade inflammation (inflamm-aging) is exclusively caused by dietary factors rather than
immune system changes.
C. Thymic involution and reduced T-cell production result in decreased ability to fight newly
encountered infections and mount vaccine responses.
D. Bone marrow production of B cells increases significantly with age, compensating for T-cell decline.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The immunological theory of aging describes progressive changes in immune function with age,
most notably thymic involution (shrinkage) that reduces production of naive T cells. This results in
NUR 257 Examination 1 - Aging & Chronic Illness Nursing 2026/2027 | Verified Questions
