Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference between crystallised and fluid intelligence in the context of normal aging?

Accepted Answer

Crystallised intelligence refers to accumulated knowledge and skills that remain stable or improve with age, while fluid intelligence involves reasoning and problem-solving, which tends to decline with age.

Question 2

A 78-year-old woman is able to recall facts and vocabulary but struggles with learning new technology. Which cognitive changes best explain this scenario?

Accepted Answer

Stable crystallised intelligence and decline in fluid intelligence.

Question 3

Which of the following is a hallmark feature that distinguishes delirium from dementia in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Delirium has an acute onset with fluctuating symptoms and is often reversible.

Question 4

A patient with dementia is increasingly unable to recognize familiar people and places. Which cognitive domain is most affected?

Accepted Answer

Perceptual-motor function

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a normal age-related neurocognitive change?

Accepted Answer

Significant loss of language abilities

Question 6

A 70-year-old man is able to recall how to ride a bicycle but cannot remember the name of his new neighbor. Which types of memory are being demonstrated?

Accepted Answer

Intact non-declarative memory and impaired declarative memory

Question 7

Which of the following is a key principle in the care of older adults with neurocognitive disorders?

Accepted Answer

Involve the person as an active participant in their care and tailor interventions to their individual needs.

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the pathophysiology of delirium in older adults?

Accepted Answer

It results from an interaction of predisposing and precipitating factors, such as cognitive impairment and acute illness.

Question 9

A nurse is assessing an older adult who is easily distracted, has fluctuating levels of alertness, and is disoriented to time and place. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Delirium

Question 10

Which of the following is a recommended approach when assessing cognitive impairment in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Use a comprehensive assessment including history, mental state examination, and collateral information from someone who knows the patient.

Question 11

Which of the following statements about depression in older adults is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

Depression in older adults is often associated with increased disability and risk of suicide.

Question 12

A 75-year-old woman is admitted with confusion, fluctuating attention, and visual hallucinations after a urinary tract infection. Which subtype of delirium is most likely present if she is lethargic and withdrawn?

Accepted Answer

Hypoactive delirium

Question 13

Which of the following is a key difference between dementia and depression in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Depression often has an acute onset and may improve with treatment, while dementia is typically progressive and irreversible.

Question 14

Which of the following is a common misconception about the cognitive changes associated with normal aging?

Accepted Answer

Significant memory loss for recent events is a normal part of aging.

Question 15

A patient with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is most likely to:

Accepted Answer

Show cognitive decline that does not interfere significantly with daily activities.

Question 16

Which of the following is an example of a non-declarative (implicit) memory?

Accepted Answer

Tying shoelaces without consciously thinking about it.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)?

Accepted Answer

A comprehensive test that evaluates multiple cognitive domains, including orientation, memory, attention, and language.

Question 18

Which of the following is the most appropriate initial step in managing delirium in an older adult?

Accepted Answer

Identify and treat the underlying cause, such as infection or medication side effects.

Question 19

A 68-year-old man is able to assemble furniture and navigate his home but has difficulty with tasks requiring quick decision-making. Which cognitive abilities are most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Processing speed and executive function

Question 20

Which of the following is a recommended communication strategy when delivering a diagnosis of dementia to a patient and their family?

Accepted Answer

Provide both written and verbal information in an accessible format.

Assessment and Care of Older Adults with Neurological Conditions: Cognitive Changes and Disorders

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