Physiological Changes with Aging
Physiological Changes with Aging ( 10 Questions)
A nurse is educating an older adult client about the changes in hair and nails that occur with aging. Which of the following statements should the nurse expect the client to make?
This statement reflects the common changes in hair that occur with aging, such as reduced melanin production, slower growth rate, and smaller hair strands.
This is wrong because nails do not grow faster and stronger with age, but rather more slowly and may become dull and brittle.
This is wrong because hair does not become more oily and curly with age, but rather drier and finer.
This is wrong because nails do not become smoother and shinier with age, but rather yellowed and opaque.
The correct answer is A. “I may notice my hair becoming thinner and grayer as I age.” This statement reflects the common changes in hair that occur with aging, such as reduced melanin production, slower growth rate, and smaller hair strands.
Choice B is wrong because nails do not grow faster and stronger with age, but rather more slowly and may become dull and brittle.
Choice C is wrong because hair does not become more oily and curly with age, but rather drier and finer.
Choice D is wrong because nails do not become smoother and shinier with age, but rather yellowed and opaque.
Normal ranges for hair and nail growth vary depending on factors such as genetics, nutrition, health conditions, and environmental exposure.
However, some general estimates are:.
• Fingernails grow about 3 mm per month and toenails grow about 1 mm per month.
• Hair grows about 0.5 inches per month and loses about 50 to 100 strands per day.
• Hair color changes from about 30% gray at age 50 to about 50% gray at age 70.