What physiological change related to aging should a nurse expect when assessing an older adult client?

As individuals age, various physiological changes occur, and one significant change is a decrease in the sense of taste. This can be attributed to a variety of factors including changes in the taste buds, alterations in saliva production, and decreased sensitivity in the neurons responsible for taste sensation. The decline in taste may also be influenced by medications, nutritional status, or dental health problems that become more prevalent in older adults.

Understanding this change is crucial for nurses as it can affect an older adult's appetite and nutritional intake. A reduced sense of taste could lead to diminished enjoyment of food, which might contribute to weight loss or malnutrition. By being aware of this change, nurses can take steps to ensure adequate nutrition, such as offering foods with stronger flavors or using seasonings to enhance taste.

The other options characterize physiological changes that are typically not associated with aging. For instance, increased muscle mass would generally decline rather than increase, visual acuity typically worsens with age, and enhanced hearing is uncommon as many older adults experience hearing loss. Recognizing these age-related changes in sensory perception is important for providing appropriate care and interventions.