NURSING CARE OF THE OLDER ADULT
RASMUSSEN MODULE 9 PROFESSIONAL
EXAMPREP 2026 TESTED QUESTIONS AND
SOLUTIONS FULL REVIEW GRADED A+
◉ The Free Radical Theory. Answer: states that "free radicals" are
formed from incomplete molecule formation or overexposure to
harmful substances. This leads to the destruction of healthy DNA,
cells, and connective tissues reducing function and viability. As an
individual ages, "free radicals" destroy healthy cells and tissues
more readily, this predisposes the individual to various diseases.
◉ The Cross-Linking Theory. Answer: Also referred to as the
glycosylation theory of aging, states that accumulation of cross-
linked proteins damages cells and tissues, slowing down bodily
processes resulting in aging.
◉ Free Radical. Answer: Molecules that are harmful and unstable
that are produced by process of metabolism or exposure to harmful
substances
Free radical spread can be limited by
-smoking cessation
-limiting sun exposure
, -limiting UV light exposure
-Diet management
◉ Antioxidants. Answer: - neutralizes free radicals
- can be found in food elements such as in vitamins and various
fruits and vegetables
◉ Diseases often seen in older adults that can be caused by free
radicals. Answer: - cancers
- diabetes
- arthritis
- atherosclerosis
◉ Biological Clock Theory. Answer: The theory that cell-
reproduction and death of cells is genetically preprogrammed. This
helps determine a person's life span.
**Note that this varies from person to person**
◉ Name some manifestations of cell division loss associated with
aging. Answer: - Menopause
- skin changes ( dryness, wrinkles, loss of
elasticity
- graying of the hair
RASMUSSEN MODULE 9 PROFESSIONAL
EXAMPREP 2026 TESTED QUESTIONS AND
SOLUTIONS FULL REVIEW GRADED A+
◉ The Free Radical Theory. Answer: states that "free radicals" are
formed from incomplete molecule formation or overexposure to
harmful substances. This leads to the destruction of healthy DNA,
cells, and connective tissues reducing function and viability. As an
individual ages, "free radicals" destroy healthy cells and tissues
more readily, this predisposes the individual to various diseases.
◉ The Cross-Linking Theory. Answer: Also referred to as the
glycosylation theory of aging, states that accumulation of cross-
linked proteins damages cells and tissues, slowing down bodily
processes resulting in aging.
◉ Free Radical. Answer: Molecules that are harmful and unstable
that are produced by process of metabolism or exposure to harmful
substances
Free radical spread can be limited by
-smoking cessation
-limiting sun exposure
, -limiting UV light exposure
-Diet management
◉ Antioxidants. Answer: - neutralizes free radicals
- can be found in food elements such as in vitamins and various
fruits and vegetables
◉ Diseases often seen in older adults that can be caused by free
radicals. Answer: - cancers
- diabetes
- arthritis
- atherosclerosis
◉ Biological Clock Theory. Answer: The theory that cell-
reproduction and death of cells is genetically preprogrammed. This
helps determine a person's life span.
**Note that this varies from person to person**
◉ Name some manifestations of cell division loss associated with
aging. Answer: - Menopause
- skin changes ( dryness, wrinkles, loss of
elasticity
- graying of the hair
