urse Aide Practice Exam 2025 - Free Nurse Aide Practice Questions and Study Guide

As individuals age, one of the most notable changes occurring in the musculoskeletal system is decreased muscle mass, a condition often referred to as sarcopenia. This decline in muscle mass can significantly affect an individual's strength, mobility, and overall physical function. With aging, not only does the quantity of muscle fiber decrease, but there can also be a reduction in the size of existing muscle fibers. This change leads to diminished muscle strength and a potential increase in the risk of falls and injuries.

In contrast, the other options do not align with common aging trends. For instance, flexibility in joints typically decreases with age due to the stiffening of tissues and wear and tear of cartilage. Bone density usually declines with age, leading to a greater risk of fractures, rather than improving. Finally, recoveries from injury tend to slow down as one ages, due to various factors including decreased vascular supply and slower metabolic rates in healing tissues. Understanding these changes is crucial for nurse aides as they provide care tailored to the needs of the elderly population.