Mr. Lester and Mr. Vann are next-door neighbors. Both Mr. Lester and Mr. Vann live alone, both are 75, and both are in good physical health. Mr. Lester spends most of his time watching television and rarely leaves his house. Mr. Vann reads many books and magazines, walks every day, works as a volunteer at the local library, and frequently plays penny poker with some friends. Based on this information, you can predict that:
A) Mr. Lester and Mr. Vann are likely to experience the same level of decline in mental abilities, since both are the same age.
B) Mr. Lester is likely to experience less of a decline in mental abilities than Mr. Vann, because Mr. Lester conserves his strength and is less likely to get sick.
C) Because he remains mentally and physically active, Mr. Vann is less likely than Mr. Lester to experience a decline in mental abilities.
D) Mr. Vann's multiple roles may increase the level of stress that he experiences.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The scenario suggests that Mr. Vann is more mentally and physically active than Mr. Lester, which is likely to reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Studies have shown that engaging in mentally stimulating activities, like reading, volunteering or socializing, can help prevent or slow down age-related cognitive decline. On the other hand, a sedentary lifestyle, like Mr. Lester's, is associated with poorer cognitive outcomes. Although age is a risk factor for cognitive decline, it is not the sole determinant, and lifestyle factors can make a difference. Option A is therefore incorrect because age alone does not predict mental ability decline. Option B assumes that Mr. Lester's sedentary lifestyle is protective, which is not supported by evidence. Option D is a possibility, but it is not mentioned in the scenario, and we cannot determine the level of stress experienced by either of the men.

Mr Lester and Mr