ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

What physical change is commonly observed in gerontologic patients?

1. Increased muscle mass

2. Bone calcium loss

3. Improved mental alertness

4. Higher body weight

The correct answer is: Bone calcium loss

Bone calcium loss is a common physical change observed in gerontologic patients due to the natural aging process. As individuals age, the balance between bone resorption by osteoclasts and bone formation by osteoblasts shifts, often leading to a net loss of bone density. This condition is particularly prevalent in older adults and can result in osteoporosis, making bones more fragile and increasing the risk of fractures. In contrast, many other options do not accurately reflect typical changes associated with aging. For instance, increased muscle mass is generally not seen; rather, muscle mass tends to decrease with age due to a variety of factors including hormonal changes, activity levels, and sedentary behavior. Similarly, improved mental alertness is not commonly associated with aging, as many older adults may experience cognitive decline. Lastly, higher body weight is not a guaranteed outcome of aging; while some individuals may gain weight, others may lose weight due to various health issues or metabolic changes. Thus, bone calcium loss stands out as a frequently observed and significant change in gerontologic patients.