Which cognitive change is considered a NORMAL part of aging rather than a sign of dementia?
Explanation
Normal age-related cognitive change includes slower processing speed, occasional 'tip-of-the-tongue' word retrieval, and minor short-term forgetfulness — without loss of judgment, ADL independence, or recognition of loved ones. Failure to recognize family (c), getting lost on familiar routes (a), and decline in self-care (b) are red flags for dementia and must be reported. The CNA should never assume cognitive symptoms are 'just aging.' Per 42 CFR §483.40 the facility must assess and address behavioral and cognitive changes; Title 22 CCR §72315 requires ongoing nursing assessment of resident status.
Law Reference: 42 CFR §483.40; Title 22 CCR §72315This topic, taught in full in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) guide. CNA — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 · 14-day refund →
Practice all 200 questions free — no signup required.
Own the complete Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) guide — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 →
Related questions on this topic
- A previously cheerful resident now sleeps most of the day, eats only a few bites at meals, has lost five pounds in two weeks, and tells the CNA, 'What's the point of getting out of bed?' The CNA should:
- Which behavior in an elderly LTC resident should the CNA report as a POTENTIAL warning sign of suicide risk?
- A resident with dementia repeatedly wanders out of her room and into other residents' rooms. The MOST appropriate first response is to:
- A resident becomes verbally aggressive and raises a fist toward the CNA during a bath. The BEST de-escalation response is to:
- Under federal regulations, physical restraints in a nursing facility may be used only when:
- A widowed resident with no nearby family says, 'No one ever comes to see me.' Which CNA action BEST addresses her psychosocial well-being?
Last reviewed: · editorial process