Gerontological Nursing Certification (GERO-BC) Practice Exam

Which term describes reduced sense of taste and lack of appetite?

Xerostomia Anosmia Dysgeusia Ageusia

Correct Answer:

Dysgeusia

Explanation:

Taste alterations are common in older adults and can directly affect appetite. The term that best describes a changed or diminished sense of taste, which can lead to eating less due to unpleasant or less salient flavors, is dysgeusia. This word captures alterations in taste perception itself—whether reduced sensitivity or distorted flavors—which often contribute to a decreased desire to eat. Xerostomia describes a dry mouth, which can make taste seem muted, but it is not the description of the taste change itself. Anosmia is loss of the sense of smell, which can alter flavor perception indirectly but is not a taste condition. Ageusia is complete loss of taste, which is more extreme than the situation described.

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