Quiz: Nutritional Risk Factors in Geriatric Patients

1. What is the primary reason for reduced appetite in elderly patients?
a) Increased physical activity
b) Sensory changes such as reduced taste and smell
c) Increased caloric needs
d) Excessive food availability

2. Which of the following chronic conditions is most likely to affect nutrient absorption in elderly patients?
a) Asthma
b) Chronic kidney disease
c) Hypertension
d) Osteoarthritis

3. Polypharmacy in geriatric patients can contribute to: a) Improved appetite
b) Decreased nutrient absorption and side effects on digestion
c) Better digestion of food
d) Increased energy levels

5. What is a common sign of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) in elderly patients?
a) Rapid weight gain
b) Muscle wasting and weakness
c) Increased appetite
d) Improved mobility

6. Which of the following interventions is most likely to improve dietary intake in socially isolated elderly patients?
a) Cognitive behavioral therapy
b) Increasing medication dosage
c) Social support and meal assistance
d) Use of high-calorie liquid supplements alone

7. Which of the following nutritional issues is commonly seen in patients with dementia?
a) Increased appetite and overeating
b) Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) and inadequate food intake
c) Improved digestion
d) Excessive vitamin D intake

8. Vitamin D deficiency in elderly individuals is most often due to:
a) Poor dietary intake
b) Decreased skin synthesis from limited sun exposure
c) Excessive supplementation
d) High levels of physical activity

9. What is the role of physical therapy in the nutritional management of elderly patients?
a) It helps increase food intake directly
b) It promotes strength-building, improving muscle mass and function
c) It reduces the need for nutritional supplements
d) It treats chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension

10. Which screening tool is commonly used to assess nutritional risk in elderly patients?
a) Barthel Index
b) Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA)
c) Glasgow Coma Scale
d) Folstein Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)