Mental HealthQuestion 131 of 200
Which cognitive change is considered a NORMAL part of aging rather than a sign of dementia?
a.Inability to recognize close family members
b.Slower processing speed and occasional word-finding difficulty, with intact judgment and ADLs
c.Getting lost while driving on a familiar route
d.Wearing the same dirty clothes for days without noticing
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 (a), getting lost on familiar routes (c), and decline in self-care (d) 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 §72315Practice all 200 questions free — no signup required.
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