Senior Care Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield Senior Care facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When a resident is prescribed an antibiotic, why is it important they complete the full course? → To ensure all bacteria are eliminated and prevent antibiotic resistance
2. When reporting a change in a resident's condition, the BEST communication method for a care aide is to use: → Objective, specific observations (e.g., 'refused breakfast, complained of nausea')
3. A caregiver consistently uses 'sweetie' and 'honey' when addressing residents. This practice is: → Considered elderspeak and may undermine resident dignity
4. What does the term 'elopement' mean in a long-term care setting? → A cognitively impaired resident leaving the facility unsafely without staff awareness
5. A resident refuses to perform their morning hygiene routine. What is the best first response? → Document the refusal and notify the nurse
6. Personal space in American culture during a caregiver-resident interaction is generally considered to be: → 18 inches to 4 feet
7. How often should a resident who is unable to reposition themselves be turned to prevent pressure injuries? → At least every 2 hours
8. What is the purpose of a restorative care program for seniors? → To help residents regain or maintain the highest possible level of functional ability
9. A resident is assessed as a high fall risk. Which intervention is most appropriate? → Place the resident's call light within reach and keep the bed in the lowest position
10. When assisting a resident with dressing, the caregiver should always dress which side first? → Affected (weaker) side
11. Which federal law enacted in 1987 establishes rights for residents in US nursing homes? → The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA 1987)
12. A resident's family member is upset about the care being provided. The care aide should: → Listen calmly, acknowledge their concern, and involve the charge nurse
13. What does the term 'instrumental ADL' (IADL) refer to? → Complex tasks needed for independent living such as cooking
14. Which dementia stage is characterized by the resident requiring total care for all ADLs and losing the ability to speak? → Late (severe) stage
15. What type of footwear best reduces fall risk in seniors? → Non-slip, well-fitted shoes or footwear with backs
16. A resident taking NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) long-term should be monitored for which complication? → Gastrointestinal bleeding
17. Which of the following supplements is commonly recommended to prevent osteoporosis in older women? → Calcium and Vitamin D
18. A caregiver needs to discuss a sensitive health matter with a resident in a shared room. What is the BEST approach? → Request a private space or close the privacy curtain before speaking
19. Which of the following is an environmental modification that can reduce fall risk? → Installing bed alarms and ensuring adequate lighting in hallways
20. During a care task, a resident shares information about suicidal thoughts. The care aide should: → Listen without dismissing the statement and immediately report it to the supervisor
21. What is the most common route of medication administration in long-term care facilities? → Oral (PO)
22. Which action by a caregiver regarding medication is outside their legal scope of practice in most US states? → Independently administering a prescription medication without nurse direction
23. What does PRN mean on a medication order? → Administer as needed
24. What is the correct way to respond if a resident begins to fall while you are assisting them? → Lower the resident safely to the floor, protecting their head
25. What is the purpose of a Falling Star program or similar visual indicator in a care facility? → To visually identify residents at high fall risk so all staff can take precautions
26. Which factor is considered the most significant risk for falls in elderly residents? → History of previous falls
27. A resident becomes tearful and says, 'Nobody cares about me anymore.' The BEST caregiver response is: → 'It sounds like you're feeling lonely. I'm here to listen.'
28. What is the best action when a resident with dementia refuses to eat? → Offer small frequent meals, finger foods, and favorite foods in a calm environment
29. What does a Timed Up and Go (TUG) test assess in older adults? → Mobility, balance, and fall risk
30. Which of the following medications commonly prescribed to seniors carries a high risk for falls? → Benzodiazepines (sedatives)