,NUR 2214 Module 2 Quiz | Nursing Care of the Older Adult
(2026) Q&A | Rasmussen College
1. A nurse is reviewing theories of aging and identifies that the free radical theory
is categorized under which group?
A) Stochastic theories
B) Non-stochastic theories
C) Programmed theories
D) Psychosocial theories
Correct Answer: Stochastic theories
Rationale: The free radical theory is a stochastic theory, meaning it proposes that
aging is caused by random, cumulative damage from internal and external
stressors over time. Non-stochastic theories suggest aging is genetically
predetermined. Programmed theories involve biological timetables, and
psychosocial theories focus on social and psychological factors.
2. Which theory of aging proposes that unstable molecules produced by
metabolism cause cellular damage over time?
A) Wear-and-Tear Theory
B) Cross-Linkage Theory
C) Free Radical Theory
,D) Biological Clock Theory
Correct Answer: Free Radical Theory
Rationale: The free radical theory states that unstable molecules called free
radicals are produced during cellular metabolism and cause damage to DNA,
proteins, and lipids. This cumulative damage accelerates aging and contributes to
chronic diseases. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and limit this damage.
3. Which theory of aging suggests that cell reproduction and death are genetically
preprogrammed, determining a person's lifespan?
A) Activity Theory
B) Biological Clock Theory
C) Continuity Theory
D) Age Stratification Theory
Correct Answer: Biological Clock Theory
Rationale: The biological clock theory proposes that cells have a genetically
predetermined number of divisions, after which they stop replicating and
repairing. This genetic timetable determines the lifespan of the organism.
Manifestations include menopause, skin changes, and gray hair.
, 4. According to the cross-linkage theory of aging, what chemical reaction
contributes to cell death and loss of elasticity?
A) Oxidation
B) Cross-linking
C) Hydrolysis
D) Phosphorylation
Correct Answer: Cross-linking
Rationale: The cross-linkage theory proposes that cross-links accumulate over
time, binding essential molecules together and interfering with normal cell
function. This leads to DNA damage, cell death, and loss of elasticity in tissues. It is
a primary cause of arteriosclerosis and immune system decline.
5. Which theory of aging is based on the premise that repeated use and abuse of
the body's tissues over time leads to an inability to repair damage?
A) Immunologic Theory
B) Cross-Linkage Theory
C) Wear-and-Tear Theory
D) Continuity Theory
Correct Answer: Wear-and-Tear Theory
(2026) Q&A | Rasmussen College
1. A nurse is reviewing theories of aging and identifies that the free radical theory
is categorized under which group?
A) Stochastic theories
B) Non-stochastic theories
C) Programmed theories
D) Psychosocial theories
Correct Answer: Stochastic theories
Rationale: The free radical theory is a stochastic theory, meaning it proposes that
aging is caused by random, cumulative damage from internal and external
stressors over time. Non-stochastic theories suggest aging is genetically
predetermined. Programmed theories involve biological timetables, and
psychosocial theories focus on social and psychological factors.
2. Which theory of aging proposes that unstable molecules produced by
metabolism cause cellular damage over time?
A) Wear-and-Tear Theory
B) Cross-Linkage Theory
C) Free Radical Theory
,D) Biological Clock Theory
Correct Answer: Free Radical Theory
Rationale: The free radical theory states that unstable molecules called free
radicals are produced during cellular metabolism and cause damage to DNA,
proteins, and lipids. This cumulative damage accelerates aging and contributes to
chronic diseases. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and limit this damage.
3. Which theory of aging suggests that cell reproduction and death are genetically
preprogrammed, determining a person's lifespan?
A) Activity Theory
B) Biological Clock Theory
C) Continuity Theory
D) Age Stratification Theory
Correct Answer: Biological Clock Theory
Rationale: The biological clock theory proposes that cells have a genetically
predetermined number of divisions, after which they stop replicating and
repairing. This genetic timetable determines the lifespan of the organism.
Manifestations include menopause, skin changes, and gray hair.
, 4. According to the cross-linkage theory of aging, what chemical reaction
contributes to cell death and loss of elasticity?
A) Oxidation
B) Cross-linking
C) Hydrolysis
D) Phosphorylation
Correct Answer: Cross-linking
Rationale: The cross-linkage theory proposes that cross-links accumulate over
time, binding essential molecules together and interfering with normal cell
function. This leads to DNA damage, cell death, and loss of elasticity in tissues. It is
a primary cause of arteriosclerosis and immune system decline.
5. Which theory of aging is based on the premise that repeated use and abuse of
the body's tissues over time leads to an inability to repair damage?
A) Immunologic Theory
B) Cross-Linkage Theory
C) Wear-and-Tear Theory
D) Continuity Theory
Correct Answer: Wear-and-Tear Theory
