Question

An older client who used to go dancing with friends has stopped because of the fear of having an "accident" in public. How can the nurse best assist this client?

A. Encourage the client to accept this consequence of growing old.
B. Assist the client to view this functional limitation as temporary and treatable.
C. Teach the client that the majority of older adults rate their health as good to excellent.
D. Rephrase the situation to one of control, and allow the client to make the decisions.

Answer 1

The nurse should support the client by viewing the limitation as treatable and offering management strategies to enable continuation of social activities like dancing.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse can best assist the client who is afraid of having an "accident" in public by helping them view this functional limitation as temporary and treatable. By providing information on various management strategies and possibly medical interventions, the nurse can empower the client to regain control over their social life and activities they enjoy, such as dancing. It is vital to address the fears and concerns related to aging and to encourage an active lifestyle that includes proper exercise and nutrition, which can minimize physical declines associated with middle and late adulthood.