Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

As individuals age, which of the following changes is not typically observed?

1. Prolonged half-life of some drugs

2. Increased cholesterol production

3. Mild increase in renal function

4. Slight decrease in immune system activity

The correct answer is: Mild increase in renal function

In the context of aging and its physiological effects, a mild increase in renal function is not typically observed. As individuals age, there is generally a decline in renal function due to a decrease in total renal mass, reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and changes in the renal vasculature. This decline can lead to a reduced ability to excrete medications and waste products, which may result in altered drug metabolism and increased risk of drug toxicity. On the other hand, prolonged half-life of some drugs is commonly seen in older adults due to decreased hepatic and renal clearance. Additionally, increased cholesterol production can occur as a result of age-related changes in metabolism. Likewise, aging is associated with a slight decrease in immune system activity, which leads to a reduced immune response and increased susceptibility to infections. Therefore, the observed changes in renal function highlight the physiological decline typically associated with aging, making the option referring to a mild increase in renal function inconsistent with established geriatric health considerations.