Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the Certified Nursing Assistant Exam with practice questions and in-depth explanations. Enhance your knowledge and boost your confidence for the exam!

Practice this question and more.


How does aging affect the nervous system?

  1. Speeds up reaction time

  2. Causes complete shutdown of nerve function

  3. Improves memory retention

  4. Older people may take slightly longer to react to things

The correct answer is: Older people may take slightly longer to react to things

The correct answer highlights a key aspect of the aging process and its effect on the nervous system. As people age, there is a natural decline in certain cognitive and motor functions, which includes a slowing of reaction time. This phenomenon can be attributed to various factors, including changes in the brain's structure and function, reductions in neurotransmitter levels, and a general decrease in the speed of nerve signal conduction. This slowing down can affect everyday activities, such as responding to sudden stimuli or making quick decisions. While aging can also bring about a wealth of experience and wisdom, the physical responses might not be as swift as they were in younger years. Understanding this aspect is crucial for providing care and ensuring the safety of older adults.