Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

What is one effect of aging on the skin?

1. Increased elasticity

2. Thinner skin layer

3. Higher oil production

4. More vibrant color

The correct answer is: Thinner skin layer

As individuals age, one significant change observed in the skin is a thinning of the skin layers. This occurs due to a decrease in the production of collagen and elastin, proteins essential for maintaining skin structure and firmness. The outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, becomes thinner, while the underlying layers may also undergo changes that affect overall skin integrity and resilience. This thinning can lead to an increased susceptibility to bruising, tearing, and other forms of skin damage. It also contributes to the visibility of veins and an overall more fragile appearance. In contrast, the other options reflect changes that do not typically align with the effects of aging. For instance, as skin ages, elasticity is reduced, oil production generally decreases, and the skin may lose some of its vibrancy in color due to a decline in blood circulation and the presence of age spots. Thus, the thinning of the skin layer is a key characteristic of aging that highlights the changes occurring in skin structure and health.