PNR 108/PNR108 Exam 1 V3 | Gerontological
Nursing Q&A with Rationale | Fortis College
1. Which biological theory of aging suggests that aging results from the accumulation of
metabolic by-products that damage DNA?
A. Genetic Theory
B. Cross-Linking Theory
C. Wear and Tear Theory
D. Free Radical Theory
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The Free Radical Theory posits that highly reactive molecules with an extra
electrical charge cause damage to cellular components. Over time, these radicals result in
cellular dysfunction and the clinical manifestations of aging. This theory is categorized as a
stochastic theory because the damage occurs randomly over time.
2. According to Erik Erikson, what is the primary developmental task for the older adult
population?
A. Integrity vs. Despair
B. Trust vs. Mistrust
C. Identity vs. Role Confusion
D. Generativity vs. Stagnation
,Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Erikson’s eighth stage of development involves reflecting on one’s life to find
meaning and satisfaction. Integrity occurs when the individual feels a sense of fulfillment
and acceptance of their life’s journey. Despair results if the individual views their life as a
series of missed opportunities or failures.
3. Which demographic trend is currently most significant regarding the older adult population
in the United States?
A. Most older adults live in skilled nursing facilities or long-term care.
B. The population of individuals over age 85 is the fastest-growing segment.
C. The poverty rate among the elderly is increasing at an exponential rate.
D. Older adults are predominantly living in multi-generational households.
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The ‘old-old’ segment, or those aged 85 and older, represents the fastest-
growing portion of the U.S. population. This shift requires nurses to focus more on chronic
disease management and complex care needs. It also places a greater demand on the
healthcare system and family caregivers.
4. A nurse identifies that an older patient is experiencing a loss of elasticity in the lens of the
eye, making it difficult to focus on close objects. This condition is known as:
A. Presbyopia
B. Glaucoma
, C. Cataracts
D. Macular Degeneration
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Presbyopia is a common age-related change where the lens loses flexibility,
impairing near vision. It typically begins in the mid-40s and is why many older adults
require reading glasses. This is a physiological change of aging rather than a disease
process.
5. Which theory of aging proposes that humans are born with a genetic program or ‘biological
clock’ that predetermines the life span?
A. Stochastic Theory
B. Disengagement Theory
C. Continuity Theory
D. Programmed Theory
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: Programmed theories suggest that aging is a result of an inner biological
clock and that each cell has a natural limit on how many times it can replicate. This falls
under the non-stochastic category, meaning the process is predetermined rather than
random. It suggests that our lifespan is largely influenced by our genetic makeup.
Nursing Q&A with Rationale | Fortis College
1. Which biological theory of aging suggests that aging results from the accumulation of
metabolic by-products that damage DNA?
A. Genetic Theory
B. Cross-Linking Theory
C. Wear and Tear Theory
D. Free Radical Theory
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The Free Radical Theory posits that highly reactive molecules with an extra
electrical charge cause damage to cellular components. Over time, these radicals result in
cellular dysfunction and the clinical manifestations of aging. This theory is categorized as a
stochastic theory because the damage occurs randomly over time.
2. According to Erik Erikson, what is the primary developmental task for the older adult
population?
A. Integrity vs. Despair
B. Trust vs. Mistrust
C. Identity vs. Role Confusion
D. Generativity vs. Stagnation
,Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Erikson’s eighth stage of development involves reflecting on one’s life to find
meaning and satisfaction. Integrity occurs when the individual feels a sense of fulfillment
and acceptance of their life’s journey. Despair results if the individual views their life as a
series of missed opportunities or failures.
3. Which demographic trend is currently most significant regarding the older adult population
in the United States?
A. Most older adults live in skilled nursing facilities or long-term care.
B. The population of individuals over age 85 is the fastest-growing segment.
C. The poverty rate among the elderly is increasing at an exponential rate.
D. Older adults are predominantly living in multi-generational households.
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The ‘old-old’ segment, or those aged 85 and older, represents the fastest-
growing portion of the U.S. population. This shift requires nurses to focus more on chronic
disease management and complex care needs. It also places a greater demand on the
healthcare system and family caregivers.
4. A nurse identifies that an older patient is experiencing a loss of elasticity in the lens of the
eye, making it difficult to focus on close objects. This condition is known as:
A. Presbyopia
B. Glaucoma
, C. Cataracts
D. Macular Degeneration
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Presbyopia is a common age-related change where the lens loses flexibility,
impairing near vision. It typically begins in the mid-40s and is why many older adults
require reading glasses. This is a physiological change of aging rather than a disease
process.
5. Which theory of aging proposes that humans are born with a genetic program or ‘biological
clock’ that predetermines the life span?
A. Stochastic Theory
B. Disengagement Theory
C. Continuity Theory
D. Programmed Theory
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: Programmed theories suggest that aging is a result of an inner biological
clock and that each cell has a natural limit on how many times it can replicate. This falls
under the non-stochastic category, meaning the process is predetermined rather than
random. It suggests that our lifespan is largely influenced by our genetic makeup.
