Which of the following clinical findings among older adults is most likely to be viewed as a normal part of aging?

A. Primary disorders affect hormone receptors, while secondary disorders affect hormone production: While receptor sensitivity may play a role in some conditions, the main distinction between primary and secondary endocrine disorders is based on the location of dysfunction, not receptor or hormone function alone.

B. Primary disorders originate in the target organ, while secondary disorders originate in the pituitary gland or hypothalamus: In primary disorders, the problem lies in the endocrine gland itself (e.g., the thyroid gland in primary hypothyroidism), while secondary disorders result from dysfunction in regulatory centers like the pituitary or hypothalamus.

C. Primary disorders involve the hypothalamus, while secondary disorders involve the target organ: This reverses the correct relationship. Secondary disorders typically involve the hypothalamus or pituitary, not primary disorders.

D. Primary disorders are caused by external factors, while secondary disorders are caused by genetic mutations: While both external and genetic factors can contribute to endocrine disorders, this distinction does not define the difference between primary and secondary types. The classification is based on the anatomical source of dysfunction.

A. High fiber diet, laxatives, increased water intake, increased reflex for defecation: These factors promote healthy bowel movements. Fiber adds bulk to stool, water softens it, laxatives stimulate movement, and an intact defecation reflex supports regular elimination, all of which prevent constipation.

B. Decreased fiber diet, decreased water intake, decreased reflex for defecation: These are contributing factors to constipation. However, it leaves out other significant causes like medications and medical conditions that impair bowel function.

C. Increased fiber diet, increased hydration, increased reflex for defecation, medications, absence of disease processes: Fiber, hydration, absence of disease and a strong reflex help prevent constipation. However, medications like opioids and anticholinergics often cause constipation regardless of diet and hydration.

D. Decreased fiber diet, decreased hydration, decreased reflex for defecation, medications, disease processes: A low-fiber diet and poor hydration lead to hard stools. A weak defecation reflex can result from neurological decline. Medications and chronic diseases such as diabetes or hypothyroidism can slow intestinal motility.