AIRS I&R Community Resource Specialists Practice Exam

What relationship exists between aging and disabilities?

1. As people age, their disabilities become more apparent to others

2. Aging and disabilities are unrelated

3. Aging causes disabilities

4. As people age, they are more likely to experience disabilities

The correct answer is: As people age, they are more likely to experience disabilities

The relationship between aging and disabilities is rooted in the biological and physiological changes that occur as individuals grow older. As people age, they experience a natural decline in physical and cognitive functions, which can lead to various health issues. This increased likelihood of enduring health problems is often manifested as disabilities, such as mobility impairments, sensory loss, or cognitive decline. The prevalence of chronic conditions, which can result in disability, tends to rise with age due to factors such as the cumulative effects of lifestyle choices, genetic predispositions, and the gradual wear and tear on the body over time. It is well-documented that older adults face a greater risk of developing disabilities when compared to younger populations. This understanding is crucial in fields such as healthcare and social services, where planning and resource allocation can be designed to support the needs of an aging population that increasingly experiences disabilities. Therefore, the assertion that as people age, they are more likely to experience disabilities accurately conveys this important demographic trend.