An 80-year-old male is brought to the emergency department with an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). He states that he quit smoking 30 years ago, so it can't be COPD. He argues, "It's just these colds I've been getting
They're just getting worse and worse." The nurse understands that
a. These symptoms are more associated with normal aging than with disease.
b. Older adults do not have to alter physical activity because of physical changes.
c. The patient's age will require adjustment of lifestyle to one of inactivity.
d. Older adults usually are aware and accepting of the aging process.
ANS: B
Older adults face the necessity of adjustment to the physical changes that accompany aging. As body systems age, changes in appearance and functioning occur. These changes are not associated with a disease but are normal changes. The presence of disease sometimes alters the timing of the changes or their impact on daily life. Acceptance of personal aging does not mean retreat into inactivity, but it does require a realistic review of strengths and limitations. Some older adults find it difficult to accept that they are aging.
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Based on Mr. D's answers to your assessment questions, you suspect that Mr. D might be depressed. What should you do first?
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Which of the following patients should a nurse consider as being the most ill?
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