Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which statement regarding nutrition for older adults is NOT accurate?

1. Recommended calcium intake is 1500 mg/day

2. Adequate vitamin D intake is 500 IU a day

3. Protein should be at least 25% of total calories

4. Older people are at risk for low sodium

The correct answer is: Adequate vitamin D intake is 500 IU a day

The statement regarding adequate vitamin D intake being 500 IU a day is not accurate in the context of current guidelines and research about older adults' nutritional requirements. For older adults, it is generally recommended to have a higher intake, often around 800 to 1000 IU per day, to ensure sufficient levels of this vitamin, which is essential for bone health and calcium absorption. Vitamin D deficiency is common in older adults due to factors such as decreased skin synthesis, limited sun exposure, and potential malabsorption. Ensuring adequate vitamin D is critical in preventing osteoporosis and related fractures commonly seen in this age group. The other statements reflect more commonly accepted recommendations. Calcium intake is indeed recommended at around 1200-1500 mg per day for older adults, particularly women post-menopause, to support bone health. It is also advised that protein constitutes a significant portion of total calories, with many experts suggesting around 1.0 to 1.2 g/kg of body weight for older adults to maintain muscle mass and function. Lastly, older adults are often at risk for low sodium due to various factors including diuretic use and dietary restrictions, highlighting the need for careful nutritional planning to avoid electrolyte imbalances.