When assessing an older adult, the nurse should review the age-related changes (see accompanying box). After review of the age-related changes, the nurse recognizes that which of the following would be a priority of concern for the older adult with vestibular degeneration? $$\begin{array} { | l | }
\hline \text { Age-Related Change: The Inner Ear } \
\hline \text { Loss of hair cells, } \downarrow \text { blood supply, less flexible basilar membrane, degeneration of spiral } \
\text { ganglion cells, and } \downarrow \text { production of endolymph result in progressive hearing loss with age } \
\text { (presbycusis) and hearing aids may be required. } \
\hline \text { High-frequency sounds are lost; middle- and low-frequency sounds may also be lost or } \
\text { decreased, which may distort speech. } \
\hline \text { Vestibular structures degenerate; organ of Corti and cochlea atrophy resulting in loss of } \
\text { equilibrium. } \
\hline
\end{array}$$

Question

When assessing an older adult, the nurse should review the age-related changes (see accompanying box). After review of the age-related changes, the nurse recognizes that which of the following would be a priority of concern for the older adult with vestibular degeneration? $$\begin{array} { | l | } 
\hline \text { Age-Related Change: The Inner Ear } \
\hline \text { Loss of hair cells, } \downarrow \text { blood supply, less flexible basilar membrane, degeneration of spiral } \
\text { ganglion cells, and } \downarrow \text { production of endolymph result in progressive hearing loss with age } \
\text { (presbycusis) and hearing aids may be required. } \
\hline \text { High-frequency sounds are lost; middle- and low-frequency sounds may also be lost or } \
\text { decreased, which may distort speech. } \
\hline \text { Vestibular structures degenerate; organ of Corti and cochlea atrophy resulting in loss of } \
\text { equilibrium. } \
\hline
\end{array}$$

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Vestibular degeneration can cause problems with balance and coordination, which increases the risk of falls. Fall prevention should be a priority concern for the older adult with this condition. While the other options (skin breakdown, nausea, and low night vision) may also be concerns for older adults, they are not specifically related to vestibular degeneration.

When Assessing an Older Adult, the Nurse Should Review the Age-Related