Cardiac Vascular Nursing Certification Practice Exam

The daily calorie requirement for an elderly adult is generally considered to be around 25 calories per kilogram of body weight. This figure is based on the understanding that energy needs decrease with age due to factors such as reduced metabolic rate, decreased physical activity, and changes in body composition. Elderly adults often experience a decline in lean body mass and an increase in fat mass, which influences their caloric needs. Therefore, a recommendation of 25 calories per kilogram effectively provides adequate energy for maintaining health, supporting daily activities, and preventing unintentional weight loss or malnutrition. In contrast, higher caloric values such as 30 or 35 calories per kilogram could lead to excessive caloric intake, resulting in weight gain and the associated health risks. Similarly, a recommendation of 20 calories per kilogram might not meet the energy requirements necessary for maintaining optimal health and preventing the degradation of body tissue in elderly individuals. This nuanced understanding of calorie requirements is essential for ensuring that elderly patients receive appropriate nutritional guidance tailored to their specific energy needs and overall health status.