Question

Marianne, who is 90 years of age, deaf, and blind, has severe dementia and hypertension, for which she takes no medications. She lives in an assisted living facility run by the local Catholic church. Her daughters placed her here for safety and assistance with activity of daily living. She continues to play cards with the staff and other residents in the home despite her blindness. She is not a member of this Catholic church. All of the residents of this assisted living are Italian. She is from France.

A. In the global context, what does it mean to be healthy? Is Marianne considered healthy or unhealthy according to the global definition of health?
B. Smith defines four models of health. What are they? According to Smith's model, how would you define Marianne's health?
C. Regardless of what country Marianne is receiving care in, does she have the right to good health and sense of well-being? How is this going to occur in a global society?

Answer 1

Marianne's health is multifaceted with challenges related to her physical and mental conditions, yet she maintains social engagement. Smith's models of health provide different perspectives on assessing her well-being. She has the right to good health and well-being, addressed through care that honors her physical, mental, and social needs.

Step-by-step explanation:

Defining Health in a Global Context

In the global context, health is often defined as not merely the absence of disease but as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. Considering Marianne, who is 90 years old with deafness, blindness, dementia, and hypertension, her state of health would be complex to define. While she does engage in social activities like playing cards, which supports her social health, her various medical conditions suggest she may not be 'healthy' in a physical or mental sense according to the global definition of health.

Smith's Models of Health

Smith outlines four models of health, including the medical model, the holistic model, the wellness model, and the illness-wellness continuum. In the context of Smith's models, Marianne's health could be viewed through different lenses. For instance, the holistic model would take into account her successful adaptation to her disabilities through psychosocial development and continued engagement in life activities, while the medical model would focus on her physiological ailments.

Right to Health and Well-being in a Global Society

Regardless of the country, Marianne does have the right to good health and a sense of well-being. Achieving this in a global society involves addressing health disparities and ensuring access to healthcare services that accommodate one's physical, mental, and social health needs. Considering Marianne's situation, it's essential to provide a supportive environment that maintains her social connectedness and considers the psychosocial aspects of her well-being.