Which of the following describes the older adult who is likely to experience the best overall health and well-being?

Question

a. Resides in assisted-living facility, watches television alone, uses herbal remedies, is underweight
b. Resides alone, was moved to a new city recently by the family for their conveni-ence, has osteoarthritis
c. Has prostate cancer with metastasis to the lungs, is receiving radiation therapy, is wealthy, has a large family
d. Uses a wheelchair, has peripheral arterial disease, attends weekly baseball games with three friends

Answer 1

D

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A Incorrect. This elder is not thriving in an assisted-living facility, despite having other people in the facility, as evidenced by television viewing habits and weight, both potential indicators of depression. Various aspects of this person's life are unbalanced thus inhibiting progress on the path to optimal health and wellness. In addition, the use of herbal remedies can be aggravating or precipi-tating the problems.
B Incorrect. After a move to a new region, an older adult, especially one who lives alone and is moved to a new area for the family's convenience, is likely to expe-rience loneliness and isolation until a new social network is established. Thus, although this person has a less acute health problem, the social isolation is likely to create significant disruption on the path to health and wellness.
C Incorrect. Although this elder's financial resources are plentiful, the existence of a large family does not ensure any type of psychosocial support. Most likely, this person faces a grim prognosis because the prostate cancer has crossed the diaphragm, thus reducing the likelihood of a prolonged life.
D Correct. Despite a serious chronic illness and mobility restrictions, this person has a social network and planned activities with friends. Further, this elder overcomes mobility issues to pursue personal interests; thus, this person is most likely to experience the best health and well-being because of an optimal func-tional status.