Final answer:
An 81-year-old client undergoing a neurologic assessment is expected to have Decreased coordination due to age-related declines in muscle mass, balance, reflex times, and strength.
Step-by-step explanation:
During a neurologic assessment of an 81-year-old client, a nurse would expect to find certain physiological changes that occur due to aging. One expected finding is Decreased coordination because as individuals age, there is typically a decline in muscle mass, balance, reflex times, and strength, which all contribute to reduced coordination. Other common changes seen with aging include declines in stamina, the senses, and mobility, with some individuals also experiencing cognitive changes such as memory loss or decreased cognitive function.
Neurological exams can assess these changes through various tests, such as checking reflexes, sensory responses, motor control, and mental status. The results help with diagnosing the extent of nerve function impairment, which can be caused by various factors, such as a stroke or nervous system damage.